Step 1

Place ginger, cinnamon, bay leaf, cardamom seeds, peppercorns, fennel seeds, cloves, and water in a medium saucepan. Bring to the boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes to develop the flavours.

Step 2

Add black tea leaves to the spice mixture and set aside for 5 minutes to infuse. Strain the tea leaf mixture through a fine sieve into a large heatproof jug. Discard the tea leaves and spices. Return the tea to the pan. Stir in milk. Place the mixture over low heat and stir until heated through.

Step 3

Pour the chai among heatproof serving glasses or teacups and stir in brown sugar or honey to taste. Serve.