Description
This homemade masala chai recipe is made by simmering black tea with aromatic spices, milk, and a touch of sweetness. Feel free to play around with the ingredients and customize to your liking!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 3/4 cup whole milk (or any plain plant-based milk)
- 2 1/2 teaspoons loose black tea (strong Assam recommended)
- 1–2 tablespoons sugar, to taste
- 6 green cardamom pods, crushed
- 1 1/2–2 inches fresh ginger, crushed
- 6–8 whole black peppercorns, lightly cracked
- 1 small cinnamon stick
- optional: 1 whole clove
Instructions
- Boil the spices. Combine the water and all of the spices in a small saucepan. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat, then reduce slightly and boil uncovered for 5–7 minutes, until the liquid is deeply fragrant and slightly reduced.
- Add the tea. Add the black tea and return to a lively simmer. Boil for 1–2 minutes, until the tea darkens and smells robust.
- Finish the chai. Pour in the milk and add the sugar. Bring the chai back to a simmer, then reduce the heat and simmer for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until rich, aromatic, and lightly frothy.
- Strain and serve. Remove from the heat and strain into mugs. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed, then serve hot.
