How to make Authentic Indian Masala Chai
India is famous for its tea, known as Masala Chai. This unique spiced tea is made with a combination of black tea, milk, cardamom, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, fennel, and other spices. Drinking a cup of authentic Indian Masala Chai is a great way to relax and rejuvenate yourself. Here’s how to make this special beverage at home.
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups of Water
- 2 tsp of Black Tea Leaves
- 1 cup of Milk, half-and-half, or coconut milk
- 2 Green Cardamom pods, slightly cracked
- 3 inches of Ginger, peeled and grated
- 2 Cinnamon Sticks
- 2 Cloves
- 1 tsp of Fennel Seeds
- 2 tsp of Honey or Sugar (optional)
Instructions
- Preparation: Gently crush the cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and fennel with a mortar and pestle.
- Boiling: In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Add the tea leaves, crushed spices, and ginger. Let the mixture steep for 5 minutes. Bring it back to a boil and then reduce the heat to low.
- Simmering: Add the milk and let the chai simmer for 2-3 minutes or until it turns golden in color. Take the pan off the heat and let it sit for another 2 minutes.
- Strain and Serve: Strain the mixture and divide it into two cups. Sweeten with honey or sugar, if desired. Enjoy your delicious cup of Indian Masala Chai!
