Warm chai, citrus, and sparkling water unite for a cozy, refreshing autumn drink full of festive spice.
# Components:
→ Chai Base
01 - 1 cup water
02 - 2 chai tea bags
03 - 1 cinnamon stick
04 - 2 whole cloves
05 - 2 thin slices fresh ginger
→ Sweetener & Citrus
06 - 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
07 - 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
08 - 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
→ To Finish
09 - 1 cup chilled sparkling water
10 - Ice cubes
→ Garnish (optional)
11 - Orange slices
12 - Cinnamon sticks
13 - Star anise
# Method:
01 - In a small saucepan, bring 1 cup water to a simmer. Add chai tea bags, cinnamon stick, cloves, and ginger. Simmer gently for 5 minutes.
02 - Remove from heat. Discard the tea bags and spices. Allow the chai concentrate to cool slightly.
03 - Stir in maple syrup, lemon juice, and orange juice until thoroughly combined.
04 - Fill two glasses with ice cubes. Divide the chai mixture evenly between the glasses.
05 - Top each glass with ½ cup chilled sparkling water and stir gently. Garnish with orange slices, an extra cinnamon stick, or star anise. Serve immediately.
