Spices for Chai on Devon Avenue

I've been building my own Chi-Chai, picking up the spices around my home, but I think I could do better on Devon Avenue but don't know my way around. I want green cardomon pods, stick cinnamon (broken pieces ideal), cloves & star anise.

Your input appreciated.

Sonja

Patel Bros. on Devon(next to the produce market w/ the giant green awning) is the place, however, you'll get outta The Spice House on Wells for cheaper as they allow much smaller increments than PB's typical 1/2 lb bags.

fyi: The Spice House carries everything you listed(and much more)

I like Patel Bros quite a bit, but more for pickles, snack mixes, and frozen breads, than spices

I was going to recommend the same place but when I went to get the address and phone #, Metromix said they're closed for remodeling.

Mike G wrote:I was going to recommend the same place but when I went to get the address and phone #, Metromix said they're closed for remodeling.

I'll jump on the bandwagon to recommend The Spice House... I don't see any indication of either of the Chicago area stores being closed [even on Metromix].

Giovanna

Sorry, I meant Patel Bros.

Mike G wrote:Sorry, I meant Patel Bros.

Well, that suuuuuuucks(about PB). I'm kinda/sorta/maybe planning a Devon trip for this coming weekend and that was going to be a major stop. I know I can get pickles, etc elsewhere on Devon, I just like Patel Bros.

patel sells everything in smaller quantities as well - 4oz for example. I like buying there because of the turnover factor.

fwiw, depending on mood etc I tend to use green cardamom (essential), ginger (fresh), fennel seeds (I really like this, it was the 'secret ingredient' of one of my uncles), I use stck cinnamon, but less often. I've never used or seen star anise being used.

Patel Bros. is open.

2610 W. Devon
773-262-7777

Well...good, then! And I'll have to look for the 4 oz. sizes. Adding onto the masala chai ideas: a friend, who makes a mean chai herownself, brought me back a prepacked mix from her latest sojourn in Mumbai/Puna(sp?) which includes longpepper. The longpepper gives the tea an unusual(to me), intriguing "bite." I use longpepper for steaks and asparagus, but never thought to add it to tea.