Masala Chai Tea Recipe: An Indian Household Classic

Chai tea, also known as masala chai, is a popular beverage in India that's made by brewing black tea with a blend of spices like cinnamon, cloves, ginger, and green cardamom pods. The use of green cardamom pods in chai tea dates back to ancient times, where it was believed to have medicinal properties and was used to treat various ailments. Today, chai tea is enjoyed worldwide for its unique blend of flavours and potential health benefits, including improved digestion and increased energy.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups water
• 2 cups whole milk (or to taste)
• 2 tablespoons loose black tea (or 4 tea bags)
• 4 green cardamom pods, lightly crushed
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 4 cloves
• 1-inch piece fresh ginger, crushed
• Black peppercorns (4-5, optional)
• Sugar or honey to taste
  

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine water, crushed cardamom pods, cinnamon stick, cloves, and crushed ginger. Add black peppercorns if using.
2. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium and simmer for 5 minutes to extract the spice flavours.
3. Add the loose tea or tea bags to the spice-infused water. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the water turns a deep reddish-brown colour.
4. Pour in the milk and increase heat to medium-high. Watch carefully as the mixture comes to a boil - it can easily overflow.
5. Once the chai begins to rise in the pot (about to boil over), reduce heat to low and simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavours to meld.
6. Turn off the heat and let the chai rest for 1 minute to allow the tea to develop full strength.
7. Strain through a fine-mesh strainer into cups or a serving pot.
8. Add sugar or honey to taste, stirring until dissolved.
   

Tips

• Use strong black tea (CTC Assam tea preferred)
• Crush spices lightly to release flavours
• Adjust milk ratio to taste (traditional ratio is 1:2 milk to water)
• Watch carefully when boiling with milk to prevent overflow
• For extra richness, use full-fat milk

Storage

• Best served fresh
• Can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours
• Reheat gently, stirring occasionally

Serving Suggestions

• Serve hot in small cups or kulhads (clay cups)
• Pair with cookies or Indian snacks like pakoras
• Perfect for breakfast or evening teatime

It's a delicious and fragrant beverage that's enjoyed around the world. Try making this recipe at home and enjoy the comforting and aromatic flavours of chai tea.