Chai tea is black tea simmered with milk, sweetener, and warm spices for a fragrant, comforting cup. Making it from scratch lets you control the spice balance and sweetness far better than a powdered mix.
What you'll need
- Small saucepan
- Black tea (loose or 2 bags)
- Milk
- Water
- Sugar or honey
- Whole spices such as cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, cloves
- Strainer
Step by step
- Crush the spicesLightly crush a few cardamom pods, a small piece of cinnamon, a couple of cloves, and a slice of fresh ginger. Crushing releases more flavor than leaving them whole.
- Simmer spices in waterAdd about one cup of water and the spices to the saucepan and bring to a boil. Let it bubble for two to three minutes so the water takes on the aroma.
- Add the teaStir in one to two teaspoons of loose black tea or two tea bags. Simmer for another two minutes to build a strong base.
- Pour in milk and sweetenerAdd about half a cup of milk and sugar or honey to taste. The mix should turn a warm tan color.
- Bring to a gentle boilHeat until it rises toward the rim, then lower the flame before it boils over. Repeat this rise once or twice for a fuller flavor.
- Strain and servePour through a strainer into your cup to catch the tea leaves and spices. Serve hot.
Handy tips
- Use full-fat milk for a creamier cup, or a plant milk if you prefer it dairy-free.
- Adjust the spice mix to taste; ginger adds warmth while cardamom adds fragrance.
- Let the tea simmer longer for a stronger, darker brew.
Heads up
- Milk foams up quickly and can boil over, so watch the pan closely and lower the heat as it rises.
FAQ
What kind of tea should I use?
A strong black tea such as Assam works best because it holds up to the milk and spices. Green or herbal teas will taste weak in comparison.
Can I make chai without dairy milk?
Yes. Oat, soy, or almond milk all work, though the texture will differ slightly. Oat milk tends to give the closest creamy result.
How do I make it less sweet?
Simply reduce or leave out the sugar. You can always add a little more after tasting, so start low.