Masala tea, also known as masala chai, is a beloved Indian beverage made by brewing black tea with aromatic spices, milk, and sugar. It’s comforting, invigorating, and rich in flavor—perfect for any time of the day, especially rainy mornings or chilly evenings. Masala tea isn’t just a drink—it’s a cozy...
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Ingredients
Main Ingredients
Water1cup
Milk1cup
Black tea leaves or tea bags2tsp
Sugar2tsp
Spices
Fresh ginger, grated or crushed1in
Cardamom pods, crushed2clove
Cloves2clove
Black peppercorns, lightly crushed2clove
Cinnamon stick, small piece1in
Fennel seeds (optional)1/2tsp
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
61.0kcal (3.05%)
Protein
2.1g (4.2%)
Carbs
10.3g (3.73%)
Sugars
9.1g (18.2%)
Healthy Fat
0.4g
Unhealthy Fat
0.8g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
How to make Masala Tea (Masala Chai)
Prepare the Masala (Spice Mix)
- Step 1
Lightly crush cardamom, cloves, black peppercorns, and cinnamon with a mortar and pestle.
- Step 2
Grate or crush the fresh ginger.
Boil the Spices
- Step 1
In a saucepan, add 1 cup of water.
- Step 2
Add all the crushed spices and grated ginger.
- Step 3
Let it come to a boil, then simmer for 2–3 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
Add Tea
- Step 1
Add 2 teaspoons of black tea leaves (or 2 tea bags) to the boiling spiced water.
- Step 2
Simmer for another 2–3 minutes (longer for stronger tea).
Add Milk and Sugar
- Step 1
Pour in 1 cup of milk and add sugar to taste.
- Step 2
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Watch it carefully—it can boil over quickly.
- Step 3
Let it simmer for 2–3 more minutes until the tea is rich and creamy.
Strain and Serve
- Step 1
Turn off the heat and strain the tea into cups using a fine mesh strainer.
- Step 2
Serve hot, preferably with some biscuits or snacks.
Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
61.0kcal (3.05%)
Protein
2.1g (4.2%)
Carbs
10.3g (3.73%)
Sugars
9.1g (18.2%)
Healthy Fat
0.4g
Unhealthy Fat
0.8g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Tips & Tricks
For vegan masala tea: Use plant-based milk like oat, almond, or soy.
No fresh ginger? Use ¼ teaspoon of dry ginger powder.
Adjust spice levels: Start with fewer spices and adjust to your liking.
Make a spice mix in advance: You can dry roast and grind the spices, then store them in an airtight jar for quick use.
FAQS
Can I use plant-based milk for masala tea?
Yes, you can use plant-based milk like oat, almond, or soy for a vegan version of masala tea.
What can I use if I don’t have fresh ginger?
If you don’t have fresh ginger, you can use ¼ teaspoon of dry ginger powder as a substitute.
How can I make the tea stronger?
To make the tea stronger, simmer the tea leaves or tea bags for a longer duration.
Can I prepare the spice mix in advance?
Yes, you can dry roast and grind the spices, then store them in an airtight jar for quick use.
What snacks pair well with masala tea?
Masala tea pairs well with biscuits, samosas, or any savory Indian snacks.
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Gayatri
(@rene121)
Cooking is my passion. Flavours unite us 🤝..I love to create new recipes... and also love to learn about different cuisine. Cooking is my passion. Flavours unite us 🤝..I love to create new recipes... and also love to learn about different cuisine. ...
Marnirni-apinthi Building, Lot Fourteen,
North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000
Australia