There’s nothing more comforting than a creamy, spice-filled cup of chai on a chilly day.
Our version of chai not only fortifies your senses; it’s super warming, and will strengthen the immune system, calm the nerves, and gets the digestive system ready for hearty winter meals! Chai spice is not only for drinking though, read more to find out what else you can do with this exotic blend of spices and herbs!
Fortify Chai Recipe
Ingredients
- 6 Tbsp roasted dandelion root
- 6 Tbsp chicory root
- 4 Tbsp cinnamon chips
- 2 Tbsp reishi mushroom pieces
- 2 Tbsp ashwagandha root pieces
- 2 Tbsp ginger pieces
- 2 Tbsp whole cardamom pods
- 1 Tbsp whole cloves
- 2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tsp star anise
- 1/2 tsp white peppercorns
Instructions
- Roast the cardamom pods along with the cinnamon chips in a hot dry pan for a short minute, always moving the pan to avoid scorching. This helps to bring out the flavors. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely, then toss all of the herbs together and store in an airtight glass jar. Fortify Chai will keep in your apothecary for up to 8 months.
- To make 2 cups of Fortify Chai:
- In a pot, pour in 2.5 cups of water and 2- 3 tablespoons of your chai herbs. Bring to a rolling boil and immediately turn down the heat to a low simmer. Simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water goes down a third.
- Add a cup of whole cow’s or goat’s milk, coconut cream, or nut milk of choice and heat until steamy. Strain, pour into cups, add a cinnamon stick and 1 roasted cocoa butter wafer per cup, and enjoy with your best friend!
© 2026 ©Suzanne Tabert, Cedar Mountain Herb School
BONUS!
You can use your chai herbs in a wide variety of places…
- In soap for added smell and an appealing look
- Burn on incense charcoal for an exotic scent in any room.
- Fill a jar 2/3rds of the way with the herbs either powdered or cut. Top the jar with oil, cover and let sit in a warm place for several weeks. This makes a warming massage oil!
- Add to bath salts! 1 cup epsom salts, 1/2 cup baking soda, 2 Tbsp Chai Spice
- Sprinkle a bit on cooked oatmeal and yogurt.
- Add several tablespoons of powdered chai spices to honey and stir until it’s a nut butter consistency. Spread it on everything!!!!
- Add the spice blend to spiced chocolate truffles.
- Make chai cookies and brownies…and I’ll come over to your house!
