Nepali Chai

This evening we spent some time with a new Bhutanese family that has just arrived from the refugee camp in Nepal. Huma taught me how to make the delicious chai they always serve to guests.

In a pot put 1 part water and 1 part milk, 1 spoonful of tea (pictured below) per cup, 1 spoonful of sugar per cup, a sprinkling of pepper and a bay leaf.

Let the concoction simmer until it’s foamy, then pour through a sieve. Serve to soon-to-be-very-happy guests!

Here’s the brand of tea they use. They are so generous, and sent us home with this bag!

Earlier in the day, Rama served a snack of fruit, Nepali donuts with tomato & chile chutney, and fried bitter gourd. The fried bitter gourd (said to be good for high blood pressure) is shown in the background, and the fresh is in my hand. First for me! I love it!