Masala Chai

An aromatic spiced milk tea brewed with whole cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves. This soul-warming drink is India's most beloved daily ritual, balancing bold tea with creamy sweetness.

Ingredients

• 1.5 cups water
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 tsp loose-leaf black tea (Assam or CTC)
• 2 tbsp sugar, or to taste
• 3 green cardamom pods, lightly crushed
• 1 cinnamon stick (2-inch)
• 3 whole cloves
• 3 whole black peppercorns
• 1 inch fresh ginger, sliced or crushed

Method

1. Add water to a small saucepan along with the crushed cardamom pods, cinnamon stick, cloves, peppercorns, and sliced ginger. Bring to a boil.
2. Once boiling, reduce heat to medium and let the spices simmer for 3 minutes to release their flavor.
3. Add the loose-leaf tea and let it brew for 2 minutes on a gentle boil.
4. Pour in the milk and sugar. Increase heat and bring the mixture back to a rolling boil, watching carefully as it will rise quickly.
5. Reduce heat and simmer for 3-4 minutes, letting the chai turn a rich caramel color. For stronger chai, let it simmer longer.
6. Strain the chai through a fine-mesh strainer into cups. Serve immediately.

Chef's note: Assam CTC (crush-tear-curl) tea gives the strongest, most authentic chai flavor. For a richer cup, increase the milk-to-water ratio. You can make a large batch of the dry spice blend and store it in an airtight jar for convenience.

Nutrition per serving

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