Masala Chai
Masala Chai is a flavorful Indian spiced tea that blends strong black tea with a medley of aromatic spices such as cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves. Often sweetened and enriched with milk, this warm and comforting beverage offers a delightful balance of sweetness and spice, making it a perfect choice for any time of day. Enjoy it hot or iced for a refreshing twist!
Ingredients
- 2 cupsWater
- 3-4 tspTea
- 1 chunk driedGinger
- 3-4 crushedCardamom
- 3Cloves
- 1 pieceCinnamon
- 1-2 wholeBlack pepper
- to tasteSugar
- to tasteMilk
Pairs Well With
- Warm samosas
- Indian naan bread
- Spiced cookies and biscuits
- Chai-spiced donuts
- Indian sweets and ladoos
- Ginger cookies and shortbread
Preparation
Bring 2 cups of water to boil. Add all the ingredients and boil again for about 15 seconds. Let stand for a minute. Warm milk in a pot. Filter tea into cups. Add milk and sugar. That's IT.
Best Enjoyed
Pro Tips
Prepare chai concentrate from scratch using traditional spices like cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves rather than relying on pre-made mixes which often lack complexity
select spirits that complement spice profiles such as dark rum, whiskey, or brandy rather than neutral vodka
steep spices in hot water first, then combine with spirits and milk for optimal flavor extraction and integration
serve hot in proper teacups or specialty glassware for authentic presentation
garnish with a cinnamon stick and star anise for aroma and visual appeal
History & Origins
An Indian-inspired cocktail celebrating traditional chai spice blends in alcoholic form, Masala Chai brings warmth and sophistication to bar programs worldwide. The drink honors Indian culinary traditions while adapting them for cocktail culture through creative spirit pairings and modern presentation. Its growing popularity reflects increasing global appreciation for diverse cultural beverages and spice-forward flavor combinations in upscale mixology.
Variations
Cold Chai Cocktail
A refreshing cold version using chilled chai concentrate with spirits and ice cream for a dessert-style cocktail
Creamy Masala
A milk-forward adaptation incorporating condensed milk and evaporated milk for creamier, more traditional Indian chai texture and flavor
Premium Spice Blend
A premium variation featuring single-origin spices and premium aged spirits for maximum complexity and sophistication in each sip
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