Masala Chai Recipe
Introduction
Masala Chai is a fragrant and warming Indian tea blend that combines bold black tea with aromatic spices and creamy milk. This comforting beverage is perfect for cozy mornings or a relaxing afternoon break.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup Water
- 1 tablespoon Black Tea
- 1 tablespoon Granulated Sugar
- 1 cup Milk
- 3 Whole Cloves
- 1/2 Cinnamon Stick
- 1 teaspoon Fresh Ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon Ground Cardamom
Instructions
- Step 1: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine water, black tea, and sugar. Stir the mixture well and bring it to a boil.
- Step 2: Once boiling, add milk, cloves, cinnamon stick, fresh ginger, and ground cardamom. Stir gently and let it come to a boil again, watching carefully to prevent the milk from boiling over.
- Step 3: When the milk starts simmering up the sides of the pan, remove it from heat and stir. Repeat this simmering process two more times to develop the flavors fully.
- Step 4: Strain the chai through a fine mesh sieve into your mug. Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of extra milk to cool to your preferred temperature and enjoy.
Tips & Variations
- For a richer chai, use whole milk or add a splash of cream.
- Adjust the spices based on your taste—try adding a pinch of black pepper or fennel seeds for a different twist.
- Use loose black tea or tea bags based on preference, but make sure the tea is strong enough to balance the milk and spices.
- If you prefer a less sweet chai, reduce the sugar or substitute with honey or your favorite sweetener.
Storage
Masala chai is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to prevent the milk from scorching. Avoid boiling the chai again when reheating.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make masala chai without fresh ginger?
Yes, you can substitute fresh ginger with 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger, although fresh ginger provides the best flavor and brightness in the chai.
What type of tea is best for masala chai?
Strong black teas such as Assam or Darjeeling work best as they hold up well to the milk and spices without becoming too weak or bitter.
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Masala Chai Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
Description
Masala Chai is a traditional Indian spiced tea made by boiling black tea leaves with a blend of aromatic spices, milk, and sugar. This comforting and flavorful beverage combines black tea with whole cloves, cinnamon, fresh ginger, and ground cardamom, delivering a rich and warming experience perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients
Tea Base
- 1/4 cup Water
- 1 tablespoon Black Tea
- 1 tablespoon Granulated Sugar
Spices and Milk
- 1 cup Milk
- 3 Whole Cloves
- 1/2 Cinnamon Stick
- 1 teaspoon Fresh Ginger, grated or minced
- 1/4 teaspoon Ground Cardamom
Instructions
- Combine Tea Ingredients: In a small saucepan over medium heat, add 1/4 cup water, 1 tablespoon black tea leaves, and 1 tablespoon granulated sugar. Stir well to dissolve the sugar and mix the tea leaves evenly.
- Initial Boil With Milk and Spices: Once the water and tea mixture comes to a boil, add 1 cup of milk, 3 whole cloves, 1/2 cinnamon stick, 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, and 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom. Stir to combine all ingredients and allow the mixture to come to a boil again. Watch carefully because milk starts to simmer up the sides quickly; when it reaches this stage, remove the saucepan from heat and stir.
- Repeat Simmering: Return the saucepan to the heat and allow the milk to simmer up the sides of the pan two more times. This repeated simmering intensifies the flavor and ensures the spices are well-infused.
- Strain and Serve: Strain the chai into a mug to remove tea leaves and spices. Top off your tea with an additional 1 to 2 tablespoons of milk, if desired, to slightly cool and adjust creaminess before serving.
Notes
- Fresh ginger adds a sharp, warming flavor; you can adjust the quantity based on your preference.
- For a vegan version, substitute dairy milk with almond, soy, or oat milk.
- To reduce sugar, you can adjust or omit the granulated sugar according to taste.
- Simmering the milk multiple times ensures robust spice infusion but be cautious to prevent boiling over.
- Straining is important to remove solid spices and tea leaves for a smooth drink.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Beverages
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
Keywords: Masala Chai, Indian Tea, Spiced Tea, Black Tea, Traditional Indian Beverage, Chai Recipe
