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–+ servings
Authentic masala chai recipe with spices and tea brewing in a pot

Authentic Masala Chai

A warm and flavorful spiced tea, perfect for cozy moments, with customizable sweetness and spice levels.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Beverage, Snack
Cuisine: Indian
Calories: 150
Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

Base Ingredients
  • 3 cups water
  • 3 cups whole milk (or almond, cashew, soy, oat, or another plant-based milk) You can use any type of milk you prefer.
  • 5 tbsp loose leaf black tea (Assam)
Spices
  • 1 inch piece ginger, sliced
  • 10 cloves whole
  • 15 pods green cardamom Cracked before adding.
  • 1.5 sticks cinnamon (about 2 inches)
  • 5-10 tsp brown sugar Adjust sweetness to taste.
  • 15 pieces black peppercorns Optional.
  • 5 pieces star anises Optional.
  • 0.5 tsp fennel seeds Optional.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Crack the cardamom pods, cloves, and peppercorns (if using) and place them in a saucepan or teapot.
  2. Add thinly sliced ginger, cinnamon sticks, and black tea.
  3. If desired, add star anise and fennel seeds.
  4. Pour in the water and bring to a low boil.
  5. Cover and steep on low heat for at least 10 minutes. For a stronger taste, keep on very low heat for 1-2 hours.
Cooking
  1. Add the milk and sugar, stirring while heating until simmering hot.
  2. Simmer for a few minutes to allow the milk to infuse the oil from the spices.
Serving
  1. Pour into mugs or glasses through a strainer and enjoy!

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 4gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 3gSodium: 50mgSugar: 10g

Notes

Serve hot in cups or mugs with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a slice of ginger on top. Pairs well with cookies, biscuits, and savory treats. Store any leftover chai in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about 2 days.

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