Masala Chai Recipe
This authentic Masala Chai recipe is cozy and warm! Learn to make it like they do in India, using fragrant whole spices, black tea, and your choice of milk.
How to Make the Best Masala Chai
There’s something deeply comforting about a cup of authentic masala chai. Unlike the overly sweetened chai lattes you might find at coffee shops, real masala chai is a beautifully balanced blend of fragrant spices, robust black tea, and creamy milk. This traditional Indian beverage has been warming souls for centuries, and once you make it at home, you’ll never go back to pre-made chai mixes.
The secret to exceptional masala chai lies in using whole spices and taking the time to let them infuse properly. Crushing the cardamom pods and peppercorns releases their essential oils, while the cinnamon sticks and star anise add layers of warmth and complexity. Fresh ginger gives it that signature spicy kick that tingles on your tongue—don’t skip this ingredient if you can help it.
Making chai at home also means you can adjust everything to your personal taste. Prefer it sweeter? Add more maple syrup or honey. Want more spice? Throw in an extra cardamom pod or two. Whether you enjoy it as a morning ritual or an afternoon pick-me-up, this masala chai recipe delivers authentic Indian flavors in every soothing sip.
Masala Chai
This authentic Masala Chai recipe is cozy and warm! Learn to make it like they do in India, using fragrant whole spices, black tea, and your choice of milk.
Ingredients
Spice Base
Tea and Milk
Instructions
Prepare the Spices
- Lightly crush cardamom pods, whole cloves, star anise and peppercorns, and place in a small pot with 1 cup of water. Add ginger and cinnamon sticks. Muddle the ginger a bit right in the pot.
- Bring to a simmer, simmer gently for 5-10 minutes covered, and turn off the heat.
Brew the Chai
- Add the tea (bring to a boil, then turn off the heat—don't boil the tea, it can get bitter) and let it steep for at least 5 minutes.
- Add your choice of milk. Bring to a simmer once more, then turn off the heat.
- Strain into a chai glass or mug.
- Stir in your choice of sweetener, taste, and add more sweetener to taste. If it tastes bitter, you need more sweetener.
Notes
- Use whole spices for the most authentic flavor—they release their oils slowly for a more complex taste.
- Don't boil the tea leaves, as this can make the chai bitter.
- Adjust sweetness to your preference—traditional chai is often quite sweet.
- For a creamier chai, use full-fat milk or oat milk.
