Description
Experience the warmth and aroma of traditional Indian Masala Chai—a comforting spiced tea brewed with bold black tea leaves, fresh spices, milk, and sugar. Perfect for chilly mornings or relaxed afternoons, this authentic recipe brings the vibrant street tea culture of India right into your kitchen.
Ingredients
2 cups water
1 teaspoon black tea leaves (preferably Assam or Darjeeling)
1/2 inch piece of fresh ginger, crushed
2–3 green cardamom pods, crushed
1 small cinnamon stick
2 cloves
2 teaspoons sugar (adjust to taste)
1/2 cup milk
Instructions
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In a small saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil over medium heat.
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Add the crushed ginger, cardamom pods, cinnamon stick, and cloves. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to allow the spices to release their flavors.
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Add black tea leaves and sugar. Simmer for another 1–2 minutes.
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Pour in the milk and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
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Lower the heat and let it simmer for 1 more minute.
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Strain the tea into cups and serve hot.
Notes
Customize by adding black peppercorns, fennel seeds, or star anise for extra depth.
For a vegan version, substitute milk with oat or almond milk.
Serve with biscuits or savory snacks like samosas for a true Indian tea-time experience.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Drink
- Method: Stovetop Boiling
- Cuisine: Indian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 90 kcal
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 25mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: Indian masala chai recipe, traditional chai, spiced Indian tea, how to make chai, chai tea recipe, Indian tea with spices