Chai Tea Recipe
Chai, which simply means "tea" in Hindi, has its origins in India. This spiced tea, traditionally called masala chai, has been a part of Indian culture for centuries. It gained prominence during the British colonial period when tea plantations flourished in India. The addition of spices, milk, and sugar gave chai its unique character, making it a staple drink across the subcontinent. Today, chai has transcended borders, becoming a global favorite.
Equipment
- A saucepan
- a strainer
- A spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 2 cups of water
- 1 cup of whole milk (or plant-based alternatives like almond or oat milk)
- 2 tablespoons loose black tea leaves or 2 black tea bags
- 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated or sliced
- 2-3 whole cloves
- 2-3 green cardamom pods, lightly crushed
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 star anise (optional)
- 1-2 tablespoons sugar or honey (adjust to taste)
Instructions
- Boil the Water with SpicesIn a saucepan, combine 2 cups of water, grated ginger, cloves, cardamom pods, cinnamon stick, and star anise (if using). Bring the mixture to a boil and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This step allows the spices to release their flavors.
- Add Tea LeavesAdd the black tea leaves or tea bags to the simmering water. Let it steep for 2-3 minutes, depending on your desired tea strength.
- Incorporate the MilkPour in the milk and stir. Increase the heat slightly to bring the mixture back to a simmer. Be careful not to let it boil over.
- Sweeten to TasteAdd sugar or honey, stirring until fully dissolved. Adjust the sweetness to your preference.
- Strain and ServeUsing a strainer, pour the chai tea into cups, filtering out the spices and tea leaves. Serve hot and enjoy!