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–+ servings

Indian Masala Chai

This homemade chai is rich, warming, and deeply flavorful—just like the kind we grew up sipping with family. Whether you go the classic route or caramelize the sugar for an extra layer of depth, both methods deliver that cozy, spiced comfort in every sip. And don’t skip the “pulling” step—it’s the secret to truly great chai.
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Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 2 cups

Equipment

  • 1 medium pot

Ingredients
 

  • 2 teaspoons chai masala homemade or store-bought
  • 1 inch piece of ginger grated
  • 2 ¼ cups water
  • 2 black tea bags
  • 1 cup whole or 2% milk
  • 4 teaspoons sugar or other sweetener
  • Instructions

Instructions

Method 1 – Classic

  • Add the chai masala to a medium saucepan over medium heat. Toast the dry spices for about 30 seconds.
  • Turn the heat up to high, add the water and ginger, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer gently for 3-5 minutes.
  • Pour in the milk, add the tea bags and sugar, and stir. Bring the chai back to a boil then remove from the heat for several seconds. Put the pot back on high heat, bring to a boil, and again immediately remove from the heat. This method is called “pulling the chai” or “double boiling” in some Indian households and helps to enhance the flavor and emulsify the milk.
  • Allow the chai to sit for 3-5 minutes then serve by pouring through a strainer and enjoy!

Method 2 – Caramelized Sugar

  • Add the sugar to a medium saucepan over medium heat. Caramelize the sugar by stirring occasionally for about 5 minutes until you see the sugar begin to brown.
  • Add the water, ginger, and chai masala and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer gently for 3-5 minutes.
  • Pour in the milk, add the tea bags, and stir. Bring the chai back to a boil then remove from the heat for several seconds. Put the pot back on high heat, bring to a boil, and again immediately remove from the heat.
  • Allow the chai to sit for 3-5 minutes then serve by pouring through a strainer and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Indian Masala Chai
Amount per Serving
Calories
115
% Daily Value*
Fat
 
4
g
6
%
Saturated Fat
 
2.5
g
16
%
Carbohydrates
 
10
g
3
%
Sugar
 
16
g
18
%
Protein
 
4
g
8
%
Vitamin C
 
0.5
mg
1
%
Calcium
 
138
mg
14
%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.