How to Make Indian Chai

 

In India, “chai” simply means tea, but it’s not just tea leaves in hot water. Indian chai is a warm, spiced, milky drink enjoyed across the country. It’s a daily ritual, served to guests as a gesture of hospitality, sipped in homes, and sold at small roadside stalls called “chaiwallahs.” Each region and family may add its own twist with spices like ginger, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, or pepper. Chai is not only a drink but also a way of bringing people together.

Ingredients (for 2 cups)

• 1 cup water

• 1 cup milk (whole milk preferred for richness)

• 2 teaspoons loose black tea (Assam or Darjeeling works well)

• 2–3 teaspoons sugar (adjust to taste)

• 2–3 crushed green cardamom pods (optional, for aroma)

• 1–2 thin slices of fresh ginger (optional, for spice)

• A small piece of cinnamon stick or 1 clove (optional, for extra flavor)

Step-by-Step Method

1. Boil Water & Spices

   • In a saucepan, add 1 cup water.

   • Add cardamom, ginger, and any other spices you like.

   • Bring to a boil so the spices release their flavor.

2. Add Tea Leaves

   • Stir in 2 teaspoons of loose black tea.

   • Let it simmer for 1–2 minutes until the water turns dark and fragrant.

3. Add Milk & Sugar

   • Pour in 1 cup milk.

   • Add sugar to taste (chai is traditionally sweet).

   • Stir well.

4. Simmer & Brew

   • Let the mixture simmer for 3–5 minutes.

   • The longer it simmers, the stronger the flavor.

5. Strain & Serve

   • Strain the tea into cups using a fine sieve.

   • Serve hot, ideally in small cups or glasses.

A Little More About Chai in India

• Chaiwallahs (tea vendors): They prepare chai at roadside stalls, pouring it back and forth between cups to mix and cool it slightly.

• Regional Variations:

  • Masala Chai – spiced with a blend of cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, pepper, and ginger.

  • Adrak Chai – flavored with ginger.

  • Cutting Chai – a half-glass of strong tea, popular in Mumbai.

• Social Drink: Chai is part of conversations, train journeys, office breaks, and family gatherings-it’s more than a beverage; it’s a way of connecting.