Indian Tea Chai Recipe

Indian Tea Chai Recipe (With Milk)

This classic Indian chai is rich, creamy, and infused with aromatic spices.

Ingredients (Serves 2)

1 cup water

1.5 cups milk (whole milk for creaminess)

2 teaspoons black tea leaves (Assam or Darjeeling)

2-3 teaspoons sugar (or to taste)

2-3 green cardamom pods (crushed)

1 small cinnamon stick

2-3 cloves

1/2 inch ginger (grated)

1-2 black peppercorns (optional)

Instructions

Boil Spices:

In a pot, bring 1 cup of water to a boil. Add crushed cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, black pepper, and ginger. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.

Add Tea Leaves:

Stir in black tea leaves and let them steep for 2 minutes.

Add Milk & Sugar:

Pour in milk and add sugar. Stir and let it come to a gentle boil.

Simmer:

Let the chai simmer for 3-5 minutes for a richer taste.

Strain & Serve:

Strain the tea into cups and serve hot.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with Parle-G biscuits, cookies, or rusks for a traditional pairing.

Enjoy with Indian snacks like samosas, pakoras, or namkeen.

Serve in clay cups (kulhads) for an authentic experience.

Tips for the Best Chai

For Stronger Chai: Steep tea leaves longer before adding milk.

For Creamier Chai: Use full-fat milk or a splash of condensed milk.

Adjust Sweetness: Add honey or jaggery instead of sugar for a natural taste.

Spice Customization: Add fennel seeds or nutmeg for extra flavor.

For Iced Chai: Let the chai cool, add ice, and blend with milk for a chai latte.

Enjoy your perfect cup of Indian chai! Let me know if you need more variations.