Homemade Chai syrup

3c. water

8 whole green cardamom pods, lightly crushed

6 whole cloves

2 cinnamon sticks

½ vanilla bean, split and seeded

⅓ c. honey

3 bags of black tea, English breakfast (decaf tea bags are an easy switch)

In a saucepan, combine the water with the cardamom pods, cloves, cinnamon sticks and vanilla bean. Bring to a boil and simmer for 15-17 minutes. Whisk in honey and remove from heat. Drop the tea bags in and let steep for three-five minutes.

Pour the mixture through a mesh strainer into a clean glass container. This mixture can be combined in equal parts with warm, frothy milk for a yum winter drink.