Masala Chai
A traditional, aromatic Indian spiced tea blend known for its warming properties. Robust black tea is brewed with a medley of ginger, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and peppercorns, then finished with milk and sugar for a comforting beverage.
What it tastes like
The aroma is dominated by cardamom and toasted cinnamon over a malty black tea base. The taste is spicy and pungent from the peppercorns and ginger, balanced by a creamy, full-bodied mouthfeel from the whole milk. It leaves a lingering warmth on the palate from the cloves and a slight tannic astringency in the finish.
Flavour profile
Ingredients
- Water2 ml
- Loose Leaf Black Tea4 tsp
- Dried Ginger1 slice
- Green Cardamom Pods (Crushed)4 wholes
- Cloves3 wholes
- Cinnamon Stick1 whole
- Black Peppercorns2 wholes
- Whole Milk0.5 ml
- Sugar2 tsp
Preparation
- 1
Bring the water to a rolling boil in a pot or saucepan.
- 2
Add the loose leaf tea, dried ginger slice, crushed cardamom pods, cloves, cinnamon stick, and black peppercorns to the boiling water.
- 3
Let the mixture boil vigorously for another 15 seconds.
- 4
Remove the pot from the heat and let the mixture steep and stand for 1 minute.
- 5
While the tea steeps, warm the milk in a separate small pot or frother.
- 6
Strain the tea mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into coffee mugs.
- 7
Stir in the warm milk and sugar to taste before serving.
Substitutions
- Loose Leaf Black TeaEarl Grey — The addition of bergamot oil introduces a sharp citrus note that cuts through the milk fat.
- Whole MilkOat Milk — Oat milk provides a similar creamy texture but adds a distinct toasted grain flavor.
- SugarJaggery — This unrefined sugar adds a deep, molasses-like richness and earthy undertones to the tea.
- Dried GingerFresh Ginger — Using fresh root increases the heat and adds a brighter, more pungent spice profile.
Variations
Dirty Masala Chai
Add a single shot of espresso to the strained tea before mixing with milk for a roasted, bitter depth.
Star Anise Chai
Include one star anise in the spice boil to introduce a clear licorice aroma and a natural sweetness.