Classic homemade masala chai (spiced tea)

Here’s a classic homemade masala chai (spiced tea) recipe that’s both aromatic and comforting:

Ingredients

• 2 cups water
• 1 cup milk (whole, skim, or plant-based)
• 2 tbsp loose black tea leaves or 2-3 black tea bags
• 2-3 tbsp sugar (adjust to taste)

For the Masala Spice Blend:

• 4-5 green cardamom pods, crushed
• 4-5 whole cloves
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1-2 black peppercorns
• 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, sliced or grated
• 1 star anise (optional)
• 1/4 tsp fennel seeds (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Masala Spice Blend:

• Lightly crush the cardamom pods, cloves, and black peppercorns using a mortar and pestle or the back of a spoon to release their flavors.

1. Boil the Water and Spices:

• In a medium saucepan, add the water and the prepared masala spice blend (cardamom, cloves, cinnamon stick, black peppercorns, ginger, star anise, and fennel seeds).
• Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5-10 minutes to allow the spices to infuse the water.

1. Add the Tea:

• Add the loose black tea leaves or tea bags to the saucepan.
• Continue to simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the tea to steep and blend with the spices.

1. Add the Milk and Sugar:

• Pour in the milk and add the sugar.
• Increase the heat to medium and bring the chai to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar.

1. Simmer and Strain:

• Once the chai comes to a boil, reduce the heat and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes. This helps to enhance the flavors.
• Turn off the heat and strain the chai into cups using a fine mesh strainer to remove the tea leaves and spices.

1. Serve:

• Serve the masala chai hot, and enjoy the warm, spiced flavors.

Tips

• Adjust the amount of spices according to your preference. You can add more ginger for a spicier chai or more cinnamon for a sweeter note.
• You can prepare the masala spice blend in larger quantities and store it in an airtight container for convenience. Use 1-2 teaspoons of the blend per cup of chai.

Enjoy your homemade masala chai!