Brews

five alternatives to pumpkin spiced brews

Gasp!

How is it possible that human beings ever survived without the flavor of 'pumpkin spice'?

(insert dramatic music here...)

Long before a marketing campaign came along to slowly and surely hook consumers on a seasonal, 'special spiced brew', we all were perfectly capable of surviving without our new drive-through fix... of pumpkin spiced things.

Although pumpkin spice is a blend of several spices, if everything tastes the same, doesn't ones' tongue become numb to the taste after a while... and pumpkin spice just becomes a boring, one-note flavor?

Well, call me crazy, but I am not a fan of one-tone dishes. And, if this caught you by surprise, well - welcome to getting to know me for the first time.

OUTSIDE of pumpkin spiced beverages, you actually have plenty of choices to challenge your taste buds, to ease into the cooler months of Fall and Winter, and to do some good for yourself, with one single hot beverage.

Here are a four of my favorite cool-season brews that serve as a 'pick-me-up', I believe these will become a welcome change for you too while you work.

Digestive Ajwain Tea

A tea-free digestive brew, I have used this to ease tummy troubles.

Cardamom Milk

A beverage made with dairy, and a blend of nuts - cardamom milk is one of those drinks that can relax you on your toughest day. Find out more about cardamom, and get a recipe for Cardamom Milk here.

Kahwa or Kashmiri Green Tea

This is a simple preparation of green tea with fragrant cardamom and saffron for a delicate treat.

Masala Cha(i)

A blend of tea, spices that are good for you, and dairy - this is a very traditional beverage. Insider tip: Change up what spices you add to the brew for new flavors each time.

Mysore Cardamom Coffee

Another beverage that uses cardamom as a prominent flavor, it is a popular beverage in parts of southern India. Insider tip: Use a chicory blended filter coffee for optimal flavor.

Note: Although cardamom features as a common spice in these, you will see how the flavor dramatically changes in each preparation, making it a versatile addition to your pantry as well.

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