An Arctic chill is sweeping the neighborhood and it is time for fuzzy mittens, cozy blankets and hot drinks with a side of Hygge.
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Today was especially brutal outside but given we’re recovering from Daylight Savings Time and I’m trying to get in my steps from my new Fitbit Alta HR, I took a nice quick walk down our very looooong driveway and a down the “block” a ways.
Here in the sticks, we don’t exactly have blocks and the roads don’t have lines. There isn’t much shoulder on the side of the road and there isn’t much traffic either. The walks can be simultaneously lonely and invigorating. It’s nice to occasionally get to a Rails to Trails pathway or a hike but when time is short, it’s nice to just step out and down our driveway.
By the time I got back though, my fingers and nose were numb from the frigid air.
For a low-calorie and quick treat, I decided to make myself a quick chai tea latte. It’s a bit more than tea than latte but it hit the spot.
Here are the easy steps:
1. Brew the Chai tea.
The box said to steep for 5 minutes. For most teas, I usually just do a couple of quick dunks until the water is dark, but I went for the whole 5 to get maximum flavor. There is a whole science to tea-making that includes optimal temperatures, brewing time, glassware, etc. In fact, boiling water for tea, coffee, and pasta is best done starting with cold water.
2. Steam the milk
One of my favorite birthday presents of all time was a Keurig Milk Frother. You simply pour in your milk of choice (almond milk doesn’t forth very well) to the internal line and then press the button. It’ll automatically turn off when you’re done. It’s easy to clean and stores neatly. However, to be honest, the price listed for it now on Amazon seems kind of ridiculous and it’s not Prime eligible. It was more reasonable when I got it 6 years ago as a present. This other frother and heater has fantastic reviews, is eligible for Prime (Try Amazon Prime 30-Day Free Trial
3. Combine to your tea:milk preferred ratio
This will depend on how ‘milky’ you like your tea. I did about half and half and then added a teaspoon of Agave Nectar.
4. Get your favorite book and blanket.
Bring your tea to your favorite reading nook and settle in to enjoy!
