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Steaming Indian masala chai in glass cups with cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves.

Indian Masala Chai

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Strong Indian milk tea infused with ginger, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, black pepper, and sugar.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 17 minutes
Servings: 4 cups
Course: Drinks
Cuisine: Indian
Calories: 135
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
 
 

Spiced Chai
  • 4 cups water
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 4 tsp loose black tea or 4 tea bags
  • 4 tbsp granulated sugar adjust to taste
  • 4 pods green cardamom lightly crushed
  • 1 stick cinnamon
  • 4 cloves whole cloves
  • 6 corns black peppercorns
  • 1 in fresh ginger sliced
  • 1 star star anise optional

Equipment

  • Small saucepan
  • Mortar and pestle
  • Fine tea strainer
  • Small glass cups

Method
 

Bloom the Spices:
  1. Lightly crush the cardamom, cloves, and peppercorns. Add them to a saucepan with the cinnamon, ginger, star anise, and water.
  2. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat, and simmer for 5 minutes.
Brew the Chai:
  1. Add the black tea and sugar. Simmer for 2 minutes, then pour in the milk.
  2. Bring the chai just to a gentle boil, reduce the heat, and simmer for 2 to 3 minutes more.
Strain and Serve:
  1. Strain the chai into small cups, pouring from a little height if desired to create a light froth.
  2. Serve hot with biscuits or a savory snack.

Nutrition

Calories: 135kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 4gFat: 4gSaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 12mgSodium: 55mgFiber: 1gSugar: 18g

Notes

  • Use more or less ginger and pepper to match your preferred level of heat.
  • Whole spices give the cleanest flavor, but a pinch of ground cardamom can be used in a hurry.