Masala chai

Indian masala chai is one of the most enjoyed beverages in India. Masala meaning a mixture of spices is simmered along with milk and tea leaves or powder. Then it is lightly sweetened with sugar. This recipe will give you masala tea that you would get in any standard Indian restaurant.

For best results follow my detailed step-by-step photo instructions and tips.

Prep Time2 minutes

Cook Time5 minutes

Total Time7 minutes

Servings2 people

AuthorSwasthi

Ingredients (1 cup = 240ml )

Method 1 - Instant masala chai powder

3 to 4 green cardamoms or elaichi
3 cloves (4 for stronger flavor)
½ to ¾ inch cinnamon piece or dalchini

For making Tea

2 cup water
1 tsp tea powder or tea leaves as needed (adjust to suit your taste)
2 to 3 tsps Sugar or as needed
½ to 1 tsp ginger freshly chopped or crushed (optional)
½ cup milk (can use lesser)

Method 2 - Makes 3 tsp masala chai powder

1 tsp green cardamoms or 5 grams skinned (elaichi)
½ tsp cloves or 2 grams (or lavang)
2½ to 3 grams cinnamon (dalchini)
¼ tsp fennel seeds or 1.5 grams (saunf)
¼ to ½ tsp pepper corn or ½ tsp powder
½ tsp nutmeg grated or 1/3 of large nutmeg
2 petals star flower or star anise (chakri phool)

How to make the recipe

Method 1 - How to make instant masala chai

Bring water to a boil.
Crush cloves, cardamom & cinnamon stick in a hand pestle or spice blender.
Add it to boiling water along with crushed ginger and tea powder.
Boil for about 2 to 3 minutes on a low to medium flame.
When the flavors are infused well pour milk and simmer for 2 to 3 minutes or until the tea darkens & turns thick.
The flavor of milk should vanish when the masala tea is ready.
Filter to serving cups. I usually simmer the entire tea until it reduces approximately to 1 ¾ cups.
Serve masala chai hot or warm with any breakfast, snack or biscuits.

Method 2 - Making masala chai powder or chai masala

Clean all the spices and add to a blender jar. Powder finely.
Store it in an airtight glass jar.
Use about ½ tsp or more to make 2 servings of tea. For stronger tea you can use about ¾ tsp.

NUTRITION (estimation only)