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masala chai masala tea

Masala chai (Masala tea)

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.

© Swasthi's Recipes

Prep Time2 minutes
Cook Time5 minutes
Total Time7 minutes
Servings2 people
AuthorSwasthi

Ingredients (1 cup = 240ml )

Method 1 - Instant masala chai powder

  • 4 green cardamoms (5 for stronger flavor) (elaichi)
  • 3 cloves (2 for milder flavor)
  • ½ to ¾ inch cinnamon piece (dalchini)

For making Tea

  • 1½ cup water
  • 1 to 1½ teaspoon tea powder or tea leaves as needed (adjust to suit your taste)
  • 3 teaspoons sugar or as needed
  • ½ to 1 teaspoon ginger freshly chopped or crushed (optional)
  • ½ cup full fat milk (adjust to taste)

Method 2 - Makes 3 tsp masala chai powder

  • 1 teaspoon green cardamoms (5 grams skinned) (elaichi)
  • ½ teaspoon cloves (2 grams) (lavang)
  • 2½ to 3 grams cinnamon (dalchini)
  • ¼ teaspoon fennel seeds (1½ grams) (saunf)
  • ¼ to ½ teaspoon black pepper corn (½ tsp powder)
  • ½ teaspoon nutmeg grated or ⅓ of large nutmeg
  • 2 petals star flower (star anise) (chakri phool)

How to make the recipe

Method 1 - How to make instant masala chai

  • Pour water to a pot and add the tea. Bring this to a boil.
  • Meanwhile crush cloves, cardamom & cinnamon stick in a hand pestle or spice blender to a powder. 
  • Add it to boiling water along with crushed ginger.
  • Boil for about 2 to 3 minutes on a low to medium flame. 
  • When the flavors are infused well pour milk and bring it to a boil.
  • Then simmer until the tea darkens & turns thick for about 5 mins. I usually simmer the entire tea until it reduces approximately to 1 ¾ cups.
  • The flavor of milk should vanish when the masala tea is ready. Filter to serving 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)

Calories: 93kcal | Carbohydrates: 11g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 9mg | Sodium: 59mg | Potassium: 120mg | Sugar: 9g | Vitamin A: 250IU | Calcium: 103mg | Iron: 0.6mg