In India, masala chai is considered a staple drink and is enjoyed by people of all ages and walks of life. It is often sold by street vendors, who serve it from large kettles to customers looking for a quick and refreshing drink. In recent years, masala chai has gained popularity around the world, and it is now widely available in coffee shops, tea shops, and even in pre-packaged tea bags.
It is a blend of black tea, spices, and milk that is known for its warm and comforting flavor. The exact recipe for masala chai can vary depending on regional and personal preferences, but common ingredients include cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, peppercorns, ginger, and milk.
Masala chai has become famous for its unique and flavorful taste, which is a result of the combination of strong black tea with warming spices. Sugar is often added to tea to balance out the strong spices and give it a more complete flavor. The addition of milk to the tea also gives it a creamy and smooth texture, making it an ideal drink for cold weather or for those who are looking for a comforting and soothing drink.
Nutritional value (per serving, based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 82 kcal
- Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 66 mg
Ingredients:
- 2 cups water
- 2 black tea bags
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 4 green cardamom pods
- 4 cloves
- 4 black peppercorns
- 2 cm piece of fresh ginger, peeled and grated
- 2 cups milk
- 3 tbsp sugar (or to taste)
Instructions:
- Boil 2 cups of water in a saucepan.
- Add tea bags, cinnamon sticks, cardamom pods, cloves, peppercorns, and grated ginger to the water.
- Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Add the milk and sugar, and stir until the sugar has dissolved.
- Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce the heat to low.
- Let the tea simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Strain the tea into cups and serve hot.
Masala chai is a delicious and comforting drink that is perfect for any time of day. It’s warm and spicy flavor is sure to soothe your soul, making it the perfect choice for a cozy night in or a pick-me-up after a long day. Whether you make it at home or enjoy it at a local tea shop, masala chai is a drink that is sure to impress. So go ahead and try it today!