Indian Masala Chai Recipe | Spiced Family Tea

Masala Chai is a comforting Indian tea made by simmering tea leaves with milk, water and sugar, then finishing with Nairuti Chai Masala near the final boil. Adding the masala towards the end helps preserve its fresh spice aroma while allowing it to blend into the chai.

Ingredients

• 2 cups water
• 2 cups milk
• 4 tsp tea leaves
• 4 tsp sugar, or to taste
• 1 to 1½ tsp Nairuti Chai Masala
• ½-inch piece fresh ginger, crushed, optional
• 4 to 5 fresh mint leaves, optional

Method

1. Heat the water. Bring 2 cups water to a gentle boil.
2. Add the tea. Add tea leaves and sugar. If using ginger or mint, add them now and simmer briefly.
3. Add the milk. Pour in 2 cups milk and stir well.
4. Simmer. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the chai reaches your preferred strength.
5. Add Chai Masala. Stir in Nairuti Chai Masala near the end, just before the final boil.
6. Boil, strain and serve. Bring to one final boil, switch off the heat, strain into cups and serve hot.

Serving Ideas

Pair with khakhra, biscuits, paratha, toast or vegetable pakoras.

Tips

• Do not overboil the tea leaves, as this can make the chai bitter.
• Add Nairuti Chai Masala near the final boil for a fresher aroma.
• Start with less masala and increase gradually according to taste.
• Use equal milk and water for a balanced cup, or slightly more milk for a richer chai.

More Ways to Use Chai Masala

Try ginger masala chai, mint masala chai, lightly spiced hot milk or spiced black tea.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much Chai Masala should I use per cup?

Start with a small pinch or about ¼ teaspoon per cup and adjust according to your preferred spice strength.

When should I add Chai Masala?

Add it towards the end, just before the final boil, to retain more of its aromatic character.

Can I use Chai Masala without milk?

Yes. A small amount can be added near the end of black tea preparation for a lighter spiced tea.

Make It with Nairuti

For the blend used in this chai, shop Nairuti Chai Masala.