It's no secret how much I love Chai. In fact, I've written an article about it's health benefits, and have used it in at least a couple recipes I've published! So, I've began making my own infused vodkas, (which I feature at the the bar I work at), and it's just another way for me to mesh my culinary background with my new profession of bartending/ mixology!
This is really so easy, that you'll definitely want to try this yourself, and it also makes for unique gifting as well!
Although you could use any vodka, (or even rum- if you prefer), I find that it's best to use a higher quality, and a vodka that is higher proof as well.
There are different types of Chai- using different styles of tea leaves. I've decided to do a Masala Chai, which consists of: cinnamon, black pepper, cloves, cardamom, ginger, nutmeg, black tea, and I also added a whole vanilla bean. This is definitely a "spiced" vodka, and not typical when compared to your "fruity" or "dessert- type" flavors on the market. This flavor of vodka may not be for everyone, but if you love the spice of Chai, then you'll enjoy this in your next cocktail!
There's no heating involved- just simply combining the tea, vodka, and spices in a Mason jar, and allowing to steep for 2-3 days, (or more if you wish), then straining, and serving! Since you are using a higher proof vodka, (higher alcohol content), there is no need for heating, and the alcohol is high enough to kill any germs/ bacteria, so this will keep for a long time if stored in a dark and cool place.
I am not one for drinking shots, so I personally would use this mixed with other liquors, juices, etc. to enhance the flavors of a cocktail. This pairs really well with more "sweet" liqueurs, such as: Buttershots, caramel, coconut, honey, Baileys, Rumchata, etc. Also, orange juice or any citrus would be excellent to mix with as well, and a simple syrup can also be added for additional sweetness. Beer? Yes!! How about a "Chai Mule"?!! Get creative with this one, and I may just post a couple cocktail ideas soon!

Yield: 1- 750ml bottle

Ingredients:
1 bottle (750ml) of a high quality vodka- preferably 70 Proof & higher
(Absolute, Smirnoff, Belvedere, Stolichnaya, etc.)

4 black tea bags
1 lg. cinnamon stick
1 whole vanilla bean
1 t. whole black peppercorns
1 t. whole cloves
2 slices of fresh ginger
1 whole nutmeg
1 cardamom pod
1 star anise

1 quart size Mason jar (cleaned well- in dishwasher if poss.)
funnel
fine sieve, coffee filters

1) Pour the entire bottle of vodka into the jar. Add all of the spices and vanilla bean. Add the tea bags- making sure to leave the strings outside of the jar! Place in either a paper bag, or in a cool & dark place for at least 2-3 days, (or longer if you wish, but 2-3 days is adequate!)
***Note: sterilizing the mason jar and bottle you will be keeping the finished vodka in is not necessary, as the higher level of vodka is enough to kill any germs/ bacteria. But make sure that the utensils are cleaned with very hot water, and well rinsed. (Preferably in the dishwasher.)

2) When the color of the vodka has darkened, (as in pic above), strain the vodka into another clean mason jar using a funnel, fine sieve, and/or coffee filters. Strain 2-3 times to make sure any sediment is removed!

3) Either pour back into the original bottle, or purchase a decorative bottle that has been properly cleaned. Cap tightly, and store in a cool, dark place. Enjoy being creative with some delicious cocktails!

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