Step-by-Step Instructions
Bring the Water to a Boil
Start with a base of 3 cups of water in a saucepan and bring it to a rolling boil. This will help infuse the flavors of the spices into the water.
Add the Spices
- Fresh ginger: Add a tablespoon of grated or crushed ginger for a warming, zesty kick.
- Coriander seeds: Add a tablespoon of lightly powdered seeds for an earthy depth.
- Black peppercorns: Crush 10 peppercorns and toss them in for a spicy spark.
- Cinnamon stick: Drop in a small stick for a sweet aroma.
- Fennel seeds: Crush half a teaspoon of seeds to add a hint of sweetness.
- Cardamom pods: Crack open four pods and add both the seeds and skin for that classic chai magic.
Let these spices simmer for about 3 minutes, releasing their rich and fragrant oils into the water.
Add the Black Tea
Stir in 1 tablespoon of
Assam black tea leaves and let the blend steep for 8–10 minutes.
The tea will deepen the color and add a robust flavor to your chai.
Pour in the Milk
Add 1 cup of milk (dairy or plant-based), and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
This creates the creamy texture that makes chai so comforting.
Add the Saffron
A pinch of saffron elevates the chai
with its luxurious aroma and golden hue.
Sweeten to Taste
Stir in your choice of sweetener—jaggery for a rich,
molasses-like flavor or sugar for a more traditional sweetness.
Strain and Serve
Use a fine mesh strainer to pour the chai into your favorite cup.
The result? A perfectly smooth, spiced tea that’s ready to enjoy.