Chai Masala—Mild Indian Recipe
This wildly popular beverage is made by combining black tea with aromatic spices and herbs. Ten simple ingredients transform your typical tea into something creamy, soothing and utterly unforgettable.
Serves 2
Ingredients
| 2 | cups | water |
| 1/2 | teaspoon | ground ginger |
| 3 | whole | green cardamom pods |
| 1 | 2-inch | cinnamon stick |
| 4 | whole | black peppercorns |
| 1 | star anise | |
| 2 | whole | cloves |
| 3 | tablespoons | sugar |
| 2 | cups | whole milk |
| 4 | teaspoons | black tea* |
*Black teas like Darjeeling and orange pekoe from Assam, India, work well in this recipe. Known brands such as Taj Mahal are available at Indian groceries and online.
Directions
Have a fine mesh strainer ready for step 5.
- Begin by slightly crushing the whole spices with the flat side of a chef’s knife. It will open the pods and expose more surface area for more flavor.
- Pour the water into a medium saucepan and bring to a boil. Add the spices and boil until fragrant, approximately 3 minutes. Add the sugar and continue to boil for another minute.
- Stir in the milk. Bring ingredients back to a boil and then remove from heat.
- Stir in the black tea. Cover pan with a lid and steep tea for 10 minutes.
- Strain the tea through a fine mesh strainer. Pour into a teapot or heat-resistant mugs or glasses and serve.
Preparation Time:
Less than 20 minutes.
