Boil the water in a saucepan. Start by placing your saucepan on the stove and adding 2 cups of water. Turn the heat to high and wait for the water to start bubbling.

Add the crushed cardamom and tea leaves (or tea bag) to the boiling water. Once the water is boiling, carefully add the crushed cardamom. If you are using tea leaves, add them now. If you prefer a tea bag, you can place it in.

Simmer for 5-7 minutes. Turn down the heat to low. Let the tea simmer on low for about 5 to 7 minutes. This allows all the flavors to mix well.

If using milk, add it and bring back to a boil. If you want to use milk, pour in a small amount now. Stir everything together and turn the heat back up to medium until it starts boiling again.

Strain the tea into cups. Remove the tea from the heat. Place a fine strainer over your cups and pour the tea through it. This will keep the cardamom pods and tea leaves out of your drink.

Sweeten with sugar or honey to taste. Add sugar or honey to your liking. Stir well, so everything mixes together.

Serve hot or chill for iced tea. Enjoy your cardamom tea hot. If you want iced tea, let it cool and then add ice cubes.