Masala chai is more than just tea; it’s an experience—a warm, spiced, and aromatic beverage that refreshes the mind and soothes the soul. Whether you want a morning boost or an evening pick-me-up, this guide will help you make the perfect cup of masala chai at home.
What is Masala Chai?
Masala chai is a traditional Indian spiced tea made by brewing black tea with a mix of aromatic spices, milk, and sweeteners. It has a rich, bold flavor with a balance of sweetness, warmth, and slight spiciness.
Ingredients for 2 Cups of Masala Chai
Basic Ingredients:
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup full-fat milk (or any milk of choice)
- 2 tsp loose black tea leaves (or 2 tea bags)
- 2 tbsp sugar or honey (adjust to taste)
Essential Spices:
- 2 green cardamom pods (crushed)
- 1 small cinnamon stick
- 2 cloves
- 1 small piece of ginger (grated or sliced)
- 4 black peppercorns (lightly crushed)
- ½ tsp fennel seeds (optional)
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Masala Chai
Step 1: Boil the Spices
- In a saucepan, add 2 cups of water and the crushed spices (cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, black pepper, fennel seeds, and ginger).
- Bring to a boil and let it simmer for 3–5 minutes. This allows the spices to infuse their flavors.
Step 2: Add the Tea Leaves
- Add the loose black tea leaves (or tea bags) to the boiling spiced water.
- Let it simmer for 3–4 minutes, depending on how strong you like your tea.
Step 3: Add Milk and Sweetener
- Pour in 1 cup of milk and mix well.
- Add sugar or honey as per your taste.
- Simmer for another 2–3 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
Step 4: Strain and Serve
- Use a fine mesh strainer or tea strainer to filter out the tea leaves and spices.
- Pour into cups and enjoy your homemade masala chai!
Serving Suggestions
- Serve hot with biscuits, pakoras, or samosas.
- Sprinkle a little cinnamon or nutmeg on top for extra flavor.
- For a richer taste, use condensed milk instead of sugar.
Tips for the Best Masala Chai
✔ Use fresh spices for the best aroma and taste.
✔ Adjust the spice ratio to suit your preference.
✔ For a stronger chai, simmer for a longer time.
✔ If using tea bags, crush the spices well for maximum flavor infusion.
