Masala Chai

 Masala tea has origins in India and has many miraculous medicinal benefits. One cup of tea a day is more than sufficient to keep you healthy and away from all sorts of illnesses. This Masala tea is a mixture of many ingredients including ginger, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and black pepper. Although there might be many versions of this tea, the basic ingredients remain the same. You can always add or remove components based on your preference.

How to make Masala Chai?

1. Start with gathering the basic ingredients and the spices you want to add to your chai.
2. Heat up about 1 ⅓ cup of water in a pot on medium-high heat. (This is for 2 cups of chai)
3. While water is heating, crush spices using a mortar and pestle or a coffee/spice grinder. Add the crushed spices to the water.
4. Grate the ginger directly into the pot of water.
5. Reduce heat to medium and bring the water to a boil.
6. Now add the tea leaves and let it boil for a minute. You can also add sugar at this time or add it in the cup when serving.
7. Add ¾ cup of milk and stir it in.
8. Bring the tea to a boil. The tea can overflow easily, so keep a close eye.
9. Once the tea comes to a boil. Turn off the gas and cover with a lid for one minute.
10. Strain the tea in a cup and enjoy!

Tips to make the perfect Masala Chai

• Water to Milk Ratio: This ratio is very much a personal preference. I prefer about ⅔ water to ⅓ whole milk in a cup of Chai. If you like richer, thicker tea, you could use more milk and less water or for a stronger tea, use even lesser milk.
• Make sure the water is simmering before you add the spices and ginger.
• Ginger is a must have. Add ginger in water and let it simmer before adding milk, else it can curdle the tea sometimes.
• Adjust the spices you add to your taste. A few tries and you will know your preference. I like to make Chai Masala blend and have it handy for everyday use.
• Do not boil the tea leaves for long, just about a minute.
• You can pick the pot using the pot handle to move it in circular motion carefully. This helps to stir it well.