Perfect Masala Chai for 2

Ingredients:
2 Tbspn minced fresh ginger
1/2 tsp cardamom seeds (crushed) or 6 cardamom pods (crushed)
4-5 black peppercorns (crushed)
1 1/2 cup H2O
3/4 cup milk
1 Tbspn half/half (optional)
2 Tbspn loose Indian Black Tea (Brooke Bond's orange pekoe works well)
1 1/2 Tbspn sugar (100% necessary)
a wire strainer

Method:

1. Combine the water, ginger, cardamom, and black pepper in a pot and bring to a rapid boil, covered.
2. Boil for a minute or two then add the tea, cover, remove from heat, and steep for 2 min.
3. Add the milk, half/half and sugar and bring back to rapid boil (be careful, it will boil over and go everywhere as soon as you turn around)
4. Strain into teapot or directly into cups and serve piping hot.