Chai, which rhymes with pie, is an Indian word for tea, as well as the name of this beverage. For centuries it’s been prepared all over India; the spices used in it vary, but the most common are cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and black pepper. Chai derives a warming, soothing effect from the cinnamon, cloves, and pepper, while the ginger and cardamom act as natural digestive aids. It’s reputed to give one a wonderful sense of well-being, so it’s no wonder that drinking chai has become a way of life in India. Don’t omit the sugar in the recipe, as you need enough to bring out the spice flavor. Somehow chais seem to lose their full robustness without it. This tea is sweet and spicy, and is rich enough to be served in place of a dessert. The following is our recipe for chai, but feel free to alter it to suit your tastes.