**Masala Chai: A Warm and Fragrant Symphony of Spices**
Masala chai, a delectable and aromatic beverage originating from the vibrant streets of India, is a harmonious blend of black tea, milk, sugar, and a symphony of spices that dance on the palate. This magical elixir, often referred to as "spiced tea," holds a special place in the hearts of tea enthusiasts worldwide. As you embark on this culinary journey, discover the secrets behind crafting the perfect masala chai and explore a collection of enticing recipes that capture the essence of this beloved beverage. From traditional methods using aromatic whole spices to contemporary variations infusing unique flavor combinations, these recipes promise to transport you to the bustling tea stalls of India, where the air is alive with the heady scent of spices and the warmth of human connection. So, gather your ingredients, let the enticing aromas fill your kitchen, and prepare to savor the captivating flavors of masala chai.
EASY MASALA CHAI RECIPE
A delicious and easy dairy-free chai recipe made with whole spices. It's spicy, comforting, naturally sweetened, and made in just 1 pot with 8 ingredients!
Provided by Minimalist Baker
Categories Beverage
Time 25m
Number Of Ingredients 9
Steps:
- Add cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, peppercorns, and cloves to the bowl of a mortar (or cutting board) and use pestle (or heavy pan) to slightly crush the spices. You aren't pulverizing into a powder, just slightly crushing into small pieces (see photo).
- To a medium saucepan add crushed spices, water, and grated (or sliced) ginger and bring to a boil over high heat. (Note: For a less gingery chai, reduce amount of ginger and slice rather than grating). Then reduce heat slightly to medium/medium-low and maintain a simmer for 15 minutes or until it reduces by about one-third.
- Add tea (loose leaf or bags) and dairy-free milk of choice (we love light canned coconut) and lower heat to low. Cover and continue cooking for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Then turn off heat and let steep for 5 minutes more (covered) or longer for deeper flavor.
- Add sweetener of choice to taste (we prefer stevia or maple syrup, but sugar is more traditional). Strain through a fine mesh strainer before serving.
- Keep strained, cooled leftovers covered in the fridge up to 3-4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in a milk frother. Not freezer friendly.
Nutrition Facts : ServingSize 1 cup, Calories 200 kcal, Carbohydrate 19.4 g, Protein 5 g, Fat 13.5 g, SaturatedFat 5.9 g, Sodium 21 mg, Fiber 3 g, Sugar 4.9 g, UnsaturatedFat 6.31 g
MASALA CHAI (TEA)
There's nothing as good as the perfect cup of Masala Chai whether it's in the middle of summer or for cozying up in the winter. Black tea is simmered with warming and fragrant spices and is best served with Parle-G biscuits or cake rusk for dipping.
Provided by Shweta Garg
Categories Drinks
Time 10m
Number Of Ingredients 9
Steps:
- Add the whole spices to a mortar and crush them lightly into smaller pieces.
- In a small saucepan on high heat, pour in the water and add the spices. Bring the water to a boil and add the tea bags or leaves. Lower the heat to a medium to low setting and simmer for two minutes, or until the tea leaves and spices have released flavor and color. Then, pour in the milk.
- Method one - Double Boil:Bring the chai to a boil on high heat, so that it starts aerating and bubbling to the top. Remove the pot from heat until the bubbles come down. Replace the pot on the burner and bring the chai back up again to a boil and remove from heat a second time until the bubbles go back down.Method two - Pulling ChaiAlternatively, use a small cup with a handle or ladle to scoop some of the chai and "pull" it while it's simmering. Start by pouring in the chai at a low height and steadily move up higher while continuing to pour the chai back into the pot to create bubbles. Repeat a few times until the chai is bubbly.
- Continue to simmer the chai until desired consistency and color, about 5-7 minutes. Some of the liquid will have evaporated by now, so the chai will be smooth and creamy. Remove the saucepan from heat.
- Strain the chai with a sieve into glasses, mugs, or a tea pot. Mix in the sugar according to taste, and serve hot.
Nutrition Facts : ServingSize 1 cup, Calories 100 kcal, Carbohydrate 12 g, Protein 4 g, Fat 4 g, SaturatedFat 2 g, Cholesterol 12 mg, Sodium 65 mg, Fiber 1 g, Sugar 10 g, UnsaturatedFat 2 g
EASY AUTHENTIC MASALA CHAI
This is a great way to make masala chai from scratch in just a few minutes!
Provided by Saara
Categories World Cuisine Recipes Asian Indian
Time 21m
Yield 2
Number Of Ingredients 9
Steps:
- Bring water to a boil in a small pot. Add ginger, cloves, cinnamon stick, green cardamom, and black cardamom; simmer until flavors infuse, about 5 minutes. Add tea bags; simmer for 1 to 2 minutes. Add milk and sugar; bring back to a boil. Strain tea into mugs.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 98.7 calories, Carbohydrate 18.4 g, Cholesterol 6.5 mg, Fat 1.7 g, Fiber 1.1 g, Protein 2.9 g, SaturatedFat 1 g, Sodium 44.3 mg, Sugar 16.3 g
Tips:
- Use high-quality black tea for the best flavor. Assam or Darjeeling tea are good choices.
- Freshly ground spices will give your chai the best flavor. If you don't have a spice grinder, you can use pre-ground spices, but the flavor will not be as good.
- Don't boil the milk. This will make the chai taste bitter. Heat the milk until it is just below a boil, then remove it from the heat.
- Sweeten the chai to taste. You can use sugar, honey, or another sweetener.
- Serve the chai immediately. It is best enjoyed hot and fresh.
Conclusion:
Masala chai is a delicious and flavorful tea that is perfect for any occasion. It is easy to make and can be customized to your liking. Whether you like it sweet or spicy, milky or strong, there is a masala chai recipe out there for you. So next time you are looking for a warm and comforting drink, reach for a cup of masala chai.
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