Masala Chai from Scratch Recipe

Introduction

Masala Chai from scratch is a fragrant and comforting Indian spiced tea that’s perfect for warming up any day. Combining bold black tea, aromatic spices, and creamy milk, this recipe delivers a rich and soothing cup with every sip.

Ingredients

• 2 cups filtered water
• 1 cup milk
• 3 teaspoons black tea
• 3 teaspoons sugar
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 4 green cardamom pods
• 4 whole cloves
• 8 black peppercorns
• 3 slices ginger root

Instructions

1. Step 1: Crush the cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, cloves, and peppercorns using a mortar and pestle. It’s not necessary to grind them into a powder; just break them into larger pieces to allow easy straining.
2. Step 2: Pour the filtered water into a pot and bring it to a boil.
3. Step 3: Add the crushed spices and ginger slices to the boiling water. Let the mixture simmer for at least 5 minutes to infuse the flavors.
4. Step 4: Stir in the black tea and sugar until the sugar dissolves. Then pour in the milk.
5. Step 5: Bring the masala chai back to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook gently for 5 minutes, or alternatively, bring it to a boil and carefully remove the pot from heat each time the tea bubbles up near the top, allowing the bubbles to subside before returning it to the stove. Repeat this a few times for a smooth finish.
6. Step 6: Strain the chai through a fine mesh strainer into mugs to catch the spices.
7. Step 7: Optionally, top your chai with freshly grated cinnamon for an extra aromatic touch before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use whole spices for the best flavor, but adjust quantities to suit your taste.
• Swap sugar for honey or your preferred sweetener for a different sweetness profile.
• For a vegan version, replace milk with almond, oat, or soy milk.
• Add a pinch of fennel seeds or star anise for additional complexity.

Storage

Masala chai is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in a microwave, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling when reheating to preserve the flavors and prevent milk from curdling.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use pre-ground spices instead of whole spices?

While pre-ground spices can work in a pinch, whole spices provide a fresher, more robust flavor and are easier to strain out after brewing.

What type of tea is best for masala chai?

Strong black tea varieties like Assam or Darjeeling are ideal for masala chai as they hold up well to the spices and milk without becoming too weak or bitter.

Masala Chai from Scratch Recipe

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4.8 from 119 reviews

Traditional Masala Chai is a flavorful and aromatic Indian spiced tea made by simmering black tea with a blend of whole spices, fresh ginger, milk, and sugar. This homemade recipe ensures a rich, warming beverage perfect for cozy mornings or afternoon tea breaks.

• Author: Kai
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 2 servings 1x
• Category: Beverage
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Indian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Liquids

• 2 cups filtered water
• 1 cup milk

Tea and Sweeteners

• 3 teaspoons black tea
• 3 teaspoons sugar

Spices and Extras

• 1 cinnamon stick
• 4 green cardamom pods
• 4 whole cloves
• 8 black peppercorns
• 3 slices ginger root

Instructions

1. Crush the Spices: Using a mortar and pestle, gently crush the cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, cloves, and black peppercorns. There’s no need to grind them finely; just break them enough so they release their flavors during brewing.
2. Boil Water: Pour 2 cups of filtered water into a pot and bring it to a rolling boil on the stove.
3. Add Spices and Ginger: Once boiling, add the crushed spices and sliced ginger root to the pot. Reduce heat to a simmer and let the mixture simmer gently for at least 5 minutes to infuse the flavors.
4. Add Tea and Sugar: Stir in 3 teaspoons of black tea and 3 teaspoons of sugar. Mix well until the sugar completely dissolves into the spiced water.
5. Incorporate Milk: Pour in 1 cup of milk. Bring the entire mixture back to a boil carefully.
6. Simmer and Manage Boiling: After boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the tea simmer for 5 minutes. Alternatively, to prevent overflow, lift the pot off the stove as the tea approaches a boil, then return it once the bubbling subsides. Repeat this lifting method several times to fully combine flavors without spilling.
7. Strain and Serve: Once brewed to your liking, pour the masala chai through a sieve or fine mesh strainer into cups to remove the spices and ginger pieces.
8. Optional Garnish: Top your chai with freshly grated cinnamon for extra aroma and taste, if desired.

Notes

• Adjust the sugar quantity to taste or substitute with alternative sweeteners like honey or jaggery for a different flavor profile.
• Milk can be substituted with plant-based alternatives like almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
• For stronger tea flavor, allow the black tea to steep longer before adding milk.
• The lifting method during boiling helps prevent milky tea from boiling over and creating a mess.
• Freshly crushed spices release more flavor compared to pre-ground versions, enhancing the chai’s aroma.

Keywords: Masala Chai, Indian Spiced Tea, Homemade Chai, Tea Recipe, Spiced Tea