Yesterday I shared my delicious chai tea blend, so today I thought it would only be fair to show another chai recipe that boosts the festive quotient of this rich brew.  I added toasted almond slivers to add a creamy richness to the blend which pairs nicely with the grated nutmeg.  The star anise adds a bright kick that plays well with the cardamom.  Be careful with the nutmeg: like cloves, it can easily overtake the other flavors so I wouldn't add more than what's given below.

Ingredients:

1 cup Assam black tea

1/2 to 1 cup cinnamon chips

1/4 to 1/3 cup toasted almond slivers

1/4 to 1/3 cup pink peppercorns

1/4 cup star anise

1/4 cup dried ginger

1/4 cup cardamom

1/8 cup clove buds

1-2 teaspoons freshly grated nutmeg

Blend ingredients and store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.  Make about 2 cups. To brew, add 1 tablespoon to 8 oz boiling water (you need your tea this hot to open up the spices).  Make sure to brew this loosely in a teapot or a big strainer--you want the hot water to circulate around the spices to really get maximum flavor.  Add sugar and milk if desired.  I also brew this in a pot on the stove using equal parts milk and water--absolutely wonderful! Enjoy!