This chai simple syrup is the perfect way to “spice up” your fall cocktails (pun intended). Try it in bourbon cocktails like the Chai Spiced Old Fashioned, or add a splash to hot tea for a cozy, non-boozy drink.
Makes about 12 oz
INGREDIENTS
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 inch piece of ginger, roughly peeled and chopped
- 3 cardamom pods
- 1 star anise
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 8 black pepper corn
- 8 cloves
DIRECTIONS
STEP 1
Use the back of a large knife to crack the spices and “wake” them.
STEP 2
Place water and sugar in a saucepan. Stir occasionally until sugar dissolve completely, and turns clear. Do not let simmer or boil.
STEP 3
Add all the spices, then remove from heat. Let the spices steep until completely cool.
(I found that after about 3 hours, the syrup achieved the taste I was looking for, but it’s really up to your desired flavor. Feel free to remove the spices once cooled, or for a stronger flavor—cover, refrigerate, and steep overnight.)
STEP 4
Pour the syrup through a strainer to remove all spices.
STEP 5
Store the syrup in an airtight container in the fridge up to 10 days.