Measure out all spices before you start heating to ensure smooth preparation.

Pour 2 cups water into a small saucepan and bring to a rolling boil over medium-high heat.

Remove the saucepan from heat and add 4 black tea bags, cinnamon sticks, cloves, cardamom pods, star anise, sliced ginger, and black pepper.

Cover the mixture and let it steep for 5 minutes to extract flavors without bitterness.

Strain the concentrate through a fine mesh strainer into a pitcher, pressing gently on the tea bags and spices to extract all liquid.

While still warm, stir in 1/2 cup honey or sugar and 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract until fully dissolved.

Allow the concentrate to cool to room temperature (about 10 minutes), then refrigerate or use immediately.

To assemble each serving, fill a glass with ice cubes, pour in 1/4 cup chai concentrate, and top with 1 cup cold milk.

Stir well before drinking and add up to 1 tablespoon sweetener if a sweeter taste is desired.