Many people have been searching for ways to boost their immune system of late (no surprises why). This easy recipe is a fantastic way to kick start your day and prepare your body's defences using natural ingredients.

Made with black tea (usually Assam), the high caffeine content will boost your energy levels whilst the ginger is said to have many anti-flammatory qualities. The combination of cinnamon and cloves are reputed to offer a medicinal effect which defends against infection.

This tea has an appealing malty taste and an intense aroma. Ginger and cardamom are the dominant notes, followed by cloves and black pepper. The latter two ingredients bring an element of heat to the flavour which is both invigorating and indulgent.

Masala Chai is extremely popular in India. Recipes varies and many families and Chaiwalas' have their own versions. So feel free to adapt to your own preference and experiment a little!.

Recipe - Serves 3 cups (approx). Takes around 20 minutes to make.

Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or 1 whole cinnamon stick
• 1 teaspoon of whole black peppers 
• 3 to 4 whole cloves
• 6 to 8 cardamom seeds
• 2 & 1/2 cups of cold water
• 1 & 1/2 tablespoons of grated ginger (or less depending on your preference)
• 3 tablespoons of loose Assam Tea - we used Assam Panitola FTGFOP1 for the high quality and aroma
• 2 cups of milk - we used oat milk because it has a creamy consistency
• 2 teaspoons of clear honey (or sugar) - add more as desired

Step 1:

Take the cinnamon, black pepper, cloves and cardamom and lightly crush in a mortar. If you don't have one, you can grind under a heavy pan on a chopping board. blend in a large glass jar with the loose tea.

Step 2:

In a medium pan add the above ingredients along with the ginger and water. Stir and bring to the boil. Simmer for 10 minutes or until the mixture has reduced a little. Try not to boil the mixture as this will make the tea bitter

Step 3:

Add milk and stir lightly, cover and simmer again for a few minutes.

Step 4:

Add the honey and stir through. Strain the entire mixture through a fine mesh sieve. Pour into cups or mugs and serve.

You can reheat this mixture if necessary and keep leftovers for a couple of days.