Adapted from the original recipe on the Spice Spice Baby blog by the brilliant Kanchan Koya — check it out for more spice-filled inspiration!
Sometimes referred to as a "dirty chai", this drink combines the brain-boosting power of coffee, black tea, and spices into one delicious and powerful beverage.
Packed with antioxidants and polyphenols, it supports brain function, enhances focus, and helps protect against oxidative stress and inflammation.
Note: To avoid disrupting your sleep, enjoy this before noon or make it caffeine-free by skipping the espresso and swapping black tea for rooibos.
YIELD
2 servings
INGREDIENTS:
- 1.5-inch piece of ginger root (supports circulation and anti-inflammatory properties)
- 6-8 cardamom pods (enhances focus and cognitive function)
- 1 Ceylon cinnamon stick (contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties)
- 4 black peppercorns (boosts the bioavailability of nutrients)
- 4 whole cloves (supports immune health)
- 2 star anise pods (supports digestion and mental clarity)
- 2 teaspoons black tea leaves (or 2 black tea bags, a good source of caffeine for focus)
- 1.5 cups milk of choice (I like organic unsweetened soy or any dairy-free option)
- 2 shots of espresso or a ½ cup of strongly brewed black coffee (for that energy boost and mental clarity)
- Monk fruit or allulose (for a natural, low-glycemic sweetener)
METHOD:
- Smash and prepare: Smash the ginger root with a mortar and pestle to release its juices.
- Simmer the spices: In a pot, add 1.5 cups of water along with the smashed ginger. Smash the remaining spices (except for the sweetener) to activate their aromas and add them to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 5 minutes (for a stronger brew, simmer for 10 minutes, but it may become a little bitter).
- Add tea: Add the black tea leaves (or rooibos for a caffeine-free version) and simmer for another 3 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
- Add milk and boil: Pour in your milk of choice and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 3 minutes, then bring to a second boil (this double-boil method helps the spices meld beautifully together). Let it simmer for another 3 minutes.
- Espresso time: Add a shot of espresso to your cup for an extra boost of focus and energy.
- Sweeten and stir: Add a sweetener like monk fruit or allulose to taste. Stir well to combine.
Enjoy! Sip, savor, and enjoy the combination of flavors and antioxidants working together to fuel your mind and body.
WHY THIS IS BRAIN-BOOSTING:
- Coffee and black tea are both rich in polyphenols and antioxidants (like catechins and flavonoids) that protect the brain from oxidative stress and inflammation, supporting overall brain health and improving focus.
- Spices such as cinnamon, ginger, and cardamom are not only flavorful but also provide one of the highest concentrations of antioxidants per serving, helping to reduce brain inflammation and support cognitive function.
- Monk fruit and allulose are low-glycemic sweeteners, meaning they don’t cause spikes in blood sugar, making them ideal for maintaining mental clarity without the crash.
Enjoy this nutrient-packed, antioxidant-rich drink that’s perfect for fueling your brain and keeping you focused throughout the day!
If you're a visual learner, check out this video tutorial of a very similar recipe.