Masala chai, with its aromatic blend of spices and tea, is a cherished beverage that warms the soul. This quintessential Indian drink has gained popularity worldwide for its unique flavor and comforting qualities. In this blog, we will take you through a step-by-step guide on how to make masala chai at home. Get ready to embark on a journey of flavors and create a perfect cup of masala chai right in your kitchen. But, if you’re too lazy to make it yourself, check out Chai Waale on Swiggy & Zomato.
Gather Your Ingredients
Before we dive into the preparation, it’s essential to have all the ingredients ready:
- 2 cups of water
- 2 cups of milk (you can adjust the milk-to-water ratio according to your preference)
- 4-5 teaspoons of loose black tea leaves or tea bags
- 4-5 green cardamom pods
- 4-5 cloves
- 1-inch piece of fresh ginger
- 1-2 cinnamon sticks
- Sugar or honey to taste
Preparing the Spices
To extract the full flavour of the spices, it’s best to crush them slightly before adding them to your masala chai. Here’s how:
- Crush the green cardamom pods to release their seeds.
- Grate or finely chop the fresh ginger.
- Break the cinnamon sticks into smaller pieces.
- Optionally, you can add a pinch of black peppercorns for a mild spicy kick.
Boil the Water
Place the 2 cups of water in a saucepan and bring it to a rolling boil. This step is crucial to ensure that the tea and spices infuse well.
Add Tea and Spices
Once the water is boiling, add the crushed cardamom pods, cloves, grated ginger, and broken cinnamon sticks. Stir the mixture gently and let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes.
Add Milk
After the spices have infused in the water, it’s time to add the milk. Pour in the 2 cups of milk and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Keep an eye on it to prevent boiling over.
Add Tea Leaves
Now, add the black tea leaves or tea bags to the simmering mixture. Allow it to brew for another 2-3 minutes. The longer you steep, the stronger the tea will be, so adjust the brewing time to your taste preference.
As an ardent fan of masala tea myself, I would like to mention here that with Chai Waale’s premium Assam tea, you need to use almost 25% less quantity for the desired aroma and colour. I would strongly recommend trying it out.
Sweeten to Taste
Once your masala chai has reached the desired strength, it’s time to sweeten it to your liking. Add sugar or honey, stirring until it dissolves. Remember that the level of sweetness is entirely up to you.
Strain and Serve
Using a fine-mesh strainer, pour the masala chai into your favourite cup, leaving behind the tea leaves and spices. Now, savour the aroma and the rich, flavorful taste of your homemade masala chai. Enjoy it with some cookies and snacks of your liking. I personally love the variety of cookies and snacks Chai Waale serves along with tea.
Congratulations! You’ve mastered the art of making masala chai at home. With a few simple steps and the right ingredients, you can enjoy this delightful beverage anytime you desire. Experiment with the spices and tea leaves to find the perfect blend that suits your taste buds. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of homemade masala chai, and share this recipe with friends and family. Cheers to the perfect cup of masala chai!
