Homemade spiced chai blend

Chai means spiced tea. Though originally from Asia, these days, it can be found in most North American tea shops.

3/4 cup green cardamom
2 tbsp black peppercorns
3 tbsp cloves
3 tbsp ground ginger
2 star anise
4 small (3-in.) sticks of cinnamon
4 spice containers (available at most dollar stores)
4 tea strainers
ribbon
4 custom masala-chai gift tags

Combine all spices in a bowl. Add spice mixture by the spoonful into a spice grinder or coffee mill. Grind in batches until blend reaches a powder-like consistency.

Divide chai spice into 4 individual containers and seal. Attach a tea strainer and bow to each container, and your gift is ready!

To really dress it up, attach one of the frugalista's masala-chai gift tags to each, which include the recipe for traditional chai tea.

Note: A little spice goes a long way, and the longer you let it steep, the more flavourful your tea will be. Chai spice is also delicious in cookies, rice pudding, cakes and more!