Chai Spice

  • 1

Ingredients

  • 3/4 cup green cardamom
  • 2 tbsp black peppercorns
  • 3 tbsp cloves
  • 3 tbsp ground ginger
  • 2 star anise
  • 4 small (3-in.) sticks of cinnamon
  • 4 spice containers (available at most dollar stores)
  • 4 tea strainers
  • ribbon
  • 4 custom masala-chai gift tags

Preparation

Step 1

Combine all spices in a bowl. Add spice mixture by the spoonful into a spice grinder or coffee mill. Grind in batches until blend reaches a powder-like consistency.
Divide chai spice into 4 individual containers and seal. Attach a tea strainer and bow to each container, and your gift is ready!
To really dress it up, attach one of the frugalista's masala-chai gift tags to each, which include the recipe for traditional chai tea.
Note: A little spice goes a long way, and the longer you let it steep, the more flavourful your tea will be. Chai spice is also delicious in cookies, rice pudding, cakes and more!