Spiced Hot Chocolate with Tea

In a small saucepan, heat water to a boil. Drop in tea leaves, turn off heat, and steep for about 5 minutes. Strain tea back into pan and add star anise, cinnamon stick , ginger, and heavy cream. Heat over medium heat until cream scalds, watching carefully so that cream does not spill over.

Put chocolate in a medium bowl. Strain hot cream mixture into bowl with chocolate. Add vanilla and whisk until chocolate is melted. Transfer to mugs and serve warm or chilled.

*Cook's Note: The spices may be increased, to taste, if your preference is spicier.