There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly brewed chai wafting through your home. As an avid chai lover, I’ve perfected this simple recipe that brings the warmth of India right to your kitchen. Let’s dive into making a delicious batch of chai that’ll serve 2-4 people!
Ingredients
- 2 cups water
- 2 cups whole milk
- 4 black tea bags (or 2 tablespoons loose black tea)
- 2-3 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
- 4-5 green cardamom pods, lightly crushed
- 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, sliced
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 4 whole cloves
- A pinch of black pepper (optional, but recommended!)
Instructions
- Brew the Base: In a medium saucepan, bring water to a boil. Add the tea bags, cardamom, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and black pepper. Reduce heat and simmer for 3-4 minutes.
- Add Milk: Pour in the milk and sugar. Increase heat to medium and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally.
- Simmer and Infuse: Once it reaches a boil, reduce heat and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes. The chai will develop a beautiful golden-brown color.
- Strain and Serve: Turn off the heat and let it sit for a minute. Strain the chai into mugs and serve hot.
Quick Variations
- Herbal Chai: Replace black tea with rooibos or your favorite herbal tea blend.
- Iced Chai: Follow the recipe, then chill in the refrigerator. Serve over ice for a refreshing twist!
Pro Tips
- For a stronger flavor, gently crush the whole spices before adding them to the water.
- Don’t let the chai boil for too long after adding milk, as it may become bitter.
- Experiment with spice ratios to find your perfect blend!
Serving Suggestions
Pair your homemade chai with crispy biscuits or a slice of warm toast for a truly comforting experience. On a chilly evening, I love curling up with a good book and a steaming mug of this chai – it’s pure bliss!
Remember, making chai is an art. Don’t be afraid to adjust the recipe to suit your taste. Happy brewing!
Try this recipe now!
Did you enjoy this recipe? Share your chai moments with us on social media using #HomemadeChaiJoy!
Also See: Spice Up Your Mornings with these Easy Chai Recipes
