Masala Chai

Kathy228's Note:

If you like a creamy chai, try this one. Using whole spices instead of spice powders produces a clean taste, prevents a murky suspension, and no dregs in the bottom of the cup. Star anis and/or a vanilla bean can be added for variation. From Fresh Indian cook book, by Sunil Vijayakar. NOTE: Though this is a strongly brewed tea, some posters thought it was too strong for their taste. So I've added options to Steps 2 and 3 for those that prefer a less strong tea.

• Total Time: 10 mins
• Prep Time: 5 mins
• Cook Time: 5 mins

Ingredients:

Servings: 2

• 1 piece ginger (1-inch, roughly chopped)
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 4 cardamom pods (crushed slightly)
• 6 cloves
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup milk
• 2 1/2 tablespoons black tea (Darjeeling, Jasmine, Assam)
• 2 tablespoons sugar

Directions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a pan.
2. Bring to a gentle boil, then simmer 2-3 minutes (for less strong tea, simmer only 2 minutes).
3. Let it set for 2 minutes, then simmer again until hot (for less strong tea, let set for one minute, no need to simmer again, it should still be hot).
4. Strain and pour into a mug or tea glasses. Sprinkle cinnamon on top.

Reviews

[French Tart]

Fabulous Kathy! I used Darjeeling loose tea, one of my favourite black teas. I opted for the with milk version and LOVED this, really loved the combination of cardamom and ginger with the other spices. I added a brown sugar cube to taste and enjoyed this in the salon for a mid-morning spicy cuppa! Made for the Asian Not Just Curries tag game, merci Kathy - a keeper, and on my next Indian meal menu! Karen/FT :-)

[littlemafia]

It didn't taste like the chai I remember but I enjoyed it. I made only a half batch,I used a black tea bag and I didn't simmer it for too long.From other experiences I knew ginger could get too overpowering.Thanks for sharing.

[Sharon123]

I scaled this down for 1 serving and really enjoyed as a nice warming breakfast tea. Thanks! Made for the Asian game March 2010.