Chaga chai tea
Chaga mushrooms are a favorite in the tea market. Full of antioxidants, they are known for their healing properties for several health problems. Studies are underway, and so far we know that it is a nutrient-rich food with amazing properties.
Ingredients
- 1 L of water
- 1/2 cup (125 ml) pieces of dried chaga mushroom (available at La Moisson)
- 1 stick of cinnamon
- 1 piece of ginger rhizome, 1 inch (2.5 cm), sliced
- 5 cloves
- 3 cardamom pods
- 1 star anise pod
- 1/2 tsp. teaspoon (2 ml) black peppercorns
- 3 ml liquid chaga mushroom extract (Botanica)
- Honey or agave, if desired
- Almond or cashew drink, if desired
Instructions
1. Boil water in a saucepan. Reduce heat to very low, until very weakly boiling.
2. Stir in mushrooms, cinnamon stick, ginger rhizome, cloves, cardamom, anise and peppercorns. Bring the temperature to a low boil, then cover and simmer for 45 minutes.
3. Remove the mushroom pieces, and set aside to let them dry. (Chaga mushrooms can be dried again, stored in the freezer in an airtight bag, and used 4 to 5 more times.) Strain the liquid, then pour it into a heatproof glass jar. The mixture can be refrigerated and reheated before serving.
4. To serve, heat the chai liquid, divide into cups and add 3 ml of liquid chaga mushroom extract per cup. Add honey or agave, if desired. Heat the milk to steam or froth it, then pour it over the mixture.
