Perfect Dirty Chai Latte

Step 1

In a small saucepan over medium high heat, whisk together chai spices, water and tea bag and bring to a boil. Once boiling, remove it from the heat and allow it to rest for 1 minute.

Step 2

Meanwhile, make the espresso in an espresso maker (or the Aeropress). Add the espresso to one large or two small mugs.

Step 3

After the 1 minute rest, strain the tea through a fine mesh strainer** into the mug(s).

Step 4

Rinse the saucepan. Add the milk and maple syrup. Heat the milk to 150 degrees Fahrenheit (measure using a thermometer): this is hot with some small bubbles forming around the outside, but not simmering. The exact temperature is helpful for getting the perfect foam (if you don’t have a thermometer you can approximate).

Step 5

Use hand frother, whisk, or French press to foam the milk. (The French press is a favorite method: Add the scalding milk to the French press and pump vigorously until frothy, about 100 times for 2% milk or approximately 1 minute; use 50 times for whole milk.) Rest the foam for about 30 seconds, which allows it to set. Go to How to Froth Milk if it’s your first time frothing.

Step 6

Pour the milk and foam evenly between the mug(s). Sprinkle with additional chai spices and serve.