Masala Chai Tweetcipe

Masala chai is an old Indian recipe and is translated as mixed spice (masala) tea (chai).  The basic recipe uses Indian spices, milk, sweetener and black tea that are simmered and steeped to make a slightly sweet and spicy hot drink that is wonderfully satisfying.  Like chili, there are lots of recipe variations for masala chai.  I’ve seen recipes that call for black pepper, fresh ginger root, star anise and sweetened condensed milk. Traditionally chai takes 15-20 minutes to make, but as the drink has become popular around the world, so has the need to make it quickly, thus the availability of chai concentrates, flavorings and the ability to order a chai latte from Starbucks.

My thanks goes to my brother-in-law, Rana, who shared his family’s recipe with me, which became my inspiration for creating my own.  This chai recipe takes some time, but the results are worth it!

Masala Chai

1 teaspoon whole fennel seeds

1 4” stick of cinnamon

3 cardamom pods

3 whole cloves

2 cups water
1 tablespoon loose leaf black tea or 2 small bags of black tea
1 qt whole milk or half and half
sugar or honey, to taste

Place the spices between 2 sheets of paper towel.  Using a flat bottom skillet, smash the spices several times to release their aromatic oils.  Place the spices and water in a large saucepan and bring to a boil.  Remove from heat, add the black tea and steep for 5-10 minutes.

Put the saucepan over medium heat, add the half and half or milk, and bring to a very low boil.  Stir occasionally.  When the chai is steaming hot, add 1-2 T of your favorite sweetener to taste and stir.  Pour the masala chai through a strainer directly into a mug and serve.  Makes 3-4 servings.