How to make Authentic Indian Masala Chai
Masala chai is a classic Indian tea beverage usually made with black tea, spices, and milk. The spices and other ingredients used in traditional masala chais typically vary regionally and even household to household. If you’re looking to make the perfect cup of spicy chai at home, follow these steps for delicious results.
Ingredients:
-
- 2-3 tablespoons of tea leaves, such as Assam or Darjeeling
-
- 1-2 cardamom pods, cracked open
-
- 4-6 whole cloves
-
- 1 3-inch cinnamon stick
-
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
-
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
-
- 2-3 black peppercorns
-
- 1 cup milk
-
- 2 teaspoons of sugar or honey (optional)
Directions:
-
- Boil four cups of water in a saucepan.
-
- Add all the spices (tea leaves, cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, black pepper, ginger, and black peppercorns) to the boiling water. Stir and allow the spices to simmer for 5 minutes or so.
-
- Once the spices have simmered for a few minutes, add the milk to the saucepan and bring everything to a gentle boil.
-
- Once the mixture boils, reduce the heat and simmer for another 5-8 minutes until it has reduced by a quarter.
-
- Strain the chai into two cups, adding sugar or honey if desired.
-
- Enjoy your hot chai tea!
That’s all there is to making the perfect cup of authentic Indian masala chai. Whether you’re drinking it for breakfast or for an afternoon pick-me-up, this classic beverage is sure to hit the spot.
