Indian Tiramisu

Ingredients:

For Masala Chai Syrup: 

4 green cardamom pods, lightly crushed 

2 cloves 

1 small cinnamon stick 

1 star anise 

1 piece (½ inch) ginger, sliced 

2 tablespoons black tea leaves, such as English breakfast 

½ cup sugar 

For Flavored Mascarpone: 

1 cup mascarpone cheese 

1 cup heavy cream 

½ cup icing sugar 

1 teaspoon vanilla extract 

To Assemble:  

24 ladyfinger biscuits 

¼ cup cocoa powder, for dusting 

½ cup finely chopped pistachios or almonds (optional) 

Directions:

For Masala Chai Syrup: 

1. Bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a saucepan. Add all the ingredients, except for sugar, and simmer for 5 minutes. Stir in sugar until dissolved and simmer for another 5 minutes. Strain syrup, then set aside to cool completely.  

For Flavored Mascarpone: 

1. Combine all ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Whisk together until smooth and creamy. Set aside.  

For Assembly: 

1. Dip a ladyfinger into the cooled syrup. (Do not soak them, just a quick dip to absorb some flavor.) Place it in a 6*12-inch dish (or use individual serving glasses). Repeat with more ladyfingers until the bottom of the dish is fully covered. Spread a layer of the mascarpone mixture on top, using about half of it. 
2. Repeat with another layer of ladyfingers and mascarpone.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow flavors to meld.
4. To serve, top the tiramisu with a dusting of cocoa powder. Garnish with pistachios or almonds (if using).