Chinese Tea Leaf Eggs

Step 1: Prepare the aromatic tea

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. 
2. Add the following ingredients to the boiling water: 3 tablespoons of black tea (such as Pu'er or Darjeeling tea leaves), 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of dark soy caramel sauce (available in Asian grocery stores), 1 cinnamon stick, 2 star anise, 2 cardamom pods, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Stir to combine. 
3. Continue boiling the tea mixture over medium heat for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors of the spices and tea to infuse. Then remove the pot from the heat and let the tea mixture cool.

Step 2: Prepare the eggs

1. In another pot, bring water to a boil and carefully place fresh chicken eggs (usually 6-8 eggs) into the boiling water. Boil the eggs for 5 minutes. 
2. After 5 minutes of boiling, transfer the eggs to a bowl of cold water to stop the cooking process and cool them down. Gently tap the eggs to create cracks on the shells, but do not peel them.

Step 3: Marinate the eggs

1. Place the cooled and cracked eggs in a large container or tightly sealed plastic bag. 
2. Gradually pour the cooled tea mixture into the container with the eggs until they are fully submerged. Make sure the eggs are completely cooled before adding the tea mixture to prevent them from cracking. 
3. Seal the container or bag and refrigerate it for about 4-8 hours (or overnight) to allow the eggs to absorb the flavors of the tea and spices.

Step 4: Serving and enjoying

1. After marinating the eggs, remove them from the refrigerator. Gently pour hot water over each egg and peel off the shells. They should peel off easily, but be careful not to damage the eggs.
2. The finished tea leaf eggs can be served whole or sliced in half. They make a great appetizer or can be served alongside rice or salads.
3. Enjoy your delicious Chinese Tea Leaf Eggs!

Note: The longer you marinate the eggs, the stronger the flavor of the tea and spices will be. If you prefer a more intense taste, you can leave the eggs in the tea mixture for a longer period of time.