Begin by bringing 2 cups of water to a vigorous boil in a small pot over medium-high heat.

Once the water is boiling, add 4-5 black peppercorns, 3 whole cloves, 3 slightly crushed green cardamom pods, and 1 cinnamon stick. Simmer gently for about 5 minutes.

Next, introduce 2 teaspoons of loose-leaf smoky black tea or 2 tea bags into the simmering spice blend and steep for 3-4 minutes.

After steeping, stir in 1 cup of milk and 1-2 tablespoons of brown sugar for sweetness.

Allow the mixture to simmer on low heat for an additional 3-4 minutes.

Finally, remove the pot from heat and strain the chai into mugs using a fine mesh strainer.