Masala Chai (Indian Spiced Tea)
Masala Chai, also known as Indian spiced tea, is a traditional beverages across India. This flavorful Indian drink is made by brewing black tea with milk, sugar, and a blend of warming spices. Perfect as a morning wake-up drink or a cozy evening cup, this masala chai recipe is easy, quick, and full of authentic Indian flavors.
Equipment
- 1 Saucepan
- 1 Mortar and pestle or rolling pin (for crushing spices)
- 1 Strainer
- 2 Cups or mugs
- 2 Spoon for stirring
Ingredients
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup milk full cream preferred for richness
- 2 tsp black tea leaves Assam or Darjeeling
- 2 tsp sugar adjust to taste
- 1 inch piece fresh ginger crushed or grated
- 3 green cardamom pods slightly crushed
- 1 small cinnamon stick
- 2 cloves
- 3 black peppercorns optional, for a stronger chai
- Optional A pinch of fennel seeds or a tiny bit of nutmeg
Instructions
- Take fresh ginger, cardamom pods, a cinnamon stick, cloves, and black peppercorns. Lightly crush them using a mortar and pestle or rolling pin to release their natural aroma and essential oils. These chai spices form the base of authentic Indian masala chai.
- In a saucepan, pour water and add the crushed spices. Bring it to a boil over medium heat, then simmer to create a flavorful spiced tea infusion.
- Next, add black tea leaves, such as Assam for a stronger flavor, and boil briefly.
- Now, pour in milk and simmer until creamy, creating a rich homemade chai with a perfect balance of spice and milk.
- Sweeten with sugar, jaggery, or honey to taste, stirring until fully dissolved.
- Turn off the heat, strain the tea into cups, and serve hot for a comforting and authentic Indian spiced tea experience.
Notes
- Use fresh, whole Indian spices for the most authentic taste.
- Assam tea gives a stronger flavor, while Darjeeling tea makes a milder tea.
- Adjust spice quantities to your preference, you can add more ginger for spiciness, more cardamom for sweetness.
- Avoid reheating chai multiple times, it tastes best fresh and hot.