Nothing beats a perfect cup of Indian Masala Chai, whether it’s for cooling down in the summer or warming up in the winter. Black tea is steeped with warming, fragrant spices and is best served with dipping Parle-G biscuits or cake rusk.

Masala is a spice, and chai is a type of tea. As a result, masala chai refers to spiced tea. Loose-leaf black tea, such as in India, whole milk, a variety of fragrant and warming spices, and sugar are frequently used.

The use of freshly ground whole spices is what distinguishes a real Indian Masala Chai. It has all the wonderful warm spices, including fresh ginger, cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves.

Recipe of Indian Masala Chai:

Ingredients:

• 1/4 teaspoon ginger powder (grated)
• 1-2 garlic cloves
• cardamom pods 1-2
• 1-2 tsp. black pepper
• 1 cinnamon stick, tiny
• 1/4 tablespoons lemongrass leaves
• 2 cups of heated water
• 1/2 cup low-fat/ cow’s milk
• 1 teaspoon of black tea
• 1 teaspoon sugar (jaggery) (optional)

Preparation Method:

1. Crush the cloves, cardamom, peppercorns, and cinnamon stick into a coarse powder in a mortar and pestle.
2. In a saucepan, bring two cups of water to a boil.
3. Continue to boil after adding the freshly grated ginger and lemongrass, as well as coarse spice combinations.
4. Continue to boil with 1 teaspoon black tea and 1 teaspoon sugar.
5. Reduce the decoction to 1 cup by adding milk to the mixture.
6. Remove the pan from the heat and cover it for a few minutes. Allow time for the Chai to settle.
7. Strain into a cup and serve immediately. If you don’t want to add the milk while the decoction is still boiling, you can do so now, after the decoction has been strained.

Health Benefits of Indian Masala Chai:

Chai is consumed on a daily basis in India, and for most Indians, it is an essential component of their morning routine. This beverage contains Kapha-balancing spices that aid in metabolism regulation, calm bowel movements, improved digestion, and immunity.

Health concerns such as the common cold, slight fever, and cough are frequent when the seasons change. By balancing Kapha and Vata, one cup of this hot tea can help ease a sore throat while also reducing health problems. The milk in this chai gives nutrition while also acting as a mild laxative.

Individuals with Pitta Prakriti should limit their Masala Chai consumption to one cup per day or only consume it on rare occasions. If you drink Chai on a regular basis, the spice blend in it can aggravate Pitta. Every day, 1-2 cups is recommended.