Authentic Indian Masala Chai Recipe – Cardamom & Ginger Infused

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Authentic Indian Masala Chai Recipe – Cardamom & Ginger Infused

Okay, let’s be real. Is there anything more comforting than a warm mug of Masala Chai? For me, it instantly transports me back to my grandmother’s kitchen, filled with the aroma of spices and endless stories. I first learned to make chai watching her, and honestly, it took a few tries to get it just right! But now, I’m so excited to share my version with you – a simple, authentic recipe for that perfect cup of cardamom and ginger infused goodness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Masala Chai isn’t just a drink; it’s an experience. It’s warming, flavorful, and incredibly versatile. You can adjust the spices to your liking, making it truly your own. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make, even if you’ve never made chai before. Seriously, in under 10 minutes, you can have a steaming mug of happiness in your hands!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this magic:

• 1 cup water (240ml)
• 2 tsp black tea leaves
• ½ cup whole milk (120ml)
• 1-2 tsp sugar (or to taste)
• Optional: Crushed green cardamom (2-3 pods)
• Optional: Fresh ginger (a small slice, about ½ inch)

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little things can make a big difference.

• Black Tea Varieties: Assam tea is a classic choice for Masala Chai – it’s bold and robust. But you can also experiment with Darjeeling for a more floral note, or a blend of both! I sometimes use CTC tea for a stronger brew.
• Regional Milk Preferences: Traditionally, whole milk is used for a richer, creamier chai. However, feel free to use whatever milk you prefer. Many people in South India use buffalo milk for an extra luxurious taste.
• Spice Blends – Cardamom & Ginger Focus: While you can get creative with your spices (cinnamon, cloves, peppercorns are all lovely!), cardamom and ginger are the stars of this recipe. Freshly crushed cardamom is always best, but a good quality ground cardamom will work in a pinch. And don’t underestimate the power of fresh ginger – it adds a lovely warmth and zing!

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get brewing!

1. First, pour 1 cup (240ml) of water into a saucepan and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Once boiling, add 2 teaspoons of black tea leaves. Let it simmer for about a minute – you’ll see the water start to turn a beautiful amber color.
3. Now, if you’re using them, add your crushed cardamom and a slice of fresh ginger. Give it a good stir to release those amazing flavors.
4. Pour in ½ cup (120ml) of milk. Increase the heat slightly and bring the mixture back to a boil. Once it boils, reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook for 2-3 minutes. This is where the magic happens – the milk infuses with the tea and spices, creating that perfect chai flavor. Don’t let it boil over!
5. Finally, strain the chai into your favorite mugs. Add 1-2 teaspoons of sugar (or more, to taste!), stir well, and enjoy immediately.

Expert Tips

Here are a few things I’ve learned over the years:

• Don’t overboil the tea: Overboiling can make the chai bitter.
• Simmer, don’t boil: A gentle simmer allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Adjust the spices: Feel free to add more or less cardamom and ginger to suit your taste.
• Use good quality tea: It really makes a difference!

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

• Vegan Chai – Plant-Based Milk Options: My friend, who’s vegan, swears by using oat milk or almond milk for a creamy, dairy-free chai. Coconut milk also adds a lovely flavor!
• Spice Level Adjustments: If you like a spicier chai, add a pinch of black pepper or a small piece of cinnamon stick.
• Strong vs. Mild Chai: For a stronger chai, use more tea leaves. For a milder chai, use less.
• Festival Adaptations – Diwali/Holi: During Diwali, I love adding a pinch of saffron to my chai for a festive touch. During Holi, a little rose water can be a beautiful addition!

Serving Suggestions

Masala Chai is perfect on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with:

• Traditional Indian snacks like biscuits or samosas.
• A slice of cake or a sweet treat.
• Simply enjoyed while curled up with a good book.

Storage Instructions

While Masala Chai is best enjoyed fresh, you can store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. The flavor might mellow slightly, but it will still be delicious!

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions:

• What type of black tea is best for Masala Chai? Assam tea is a classic choice, but Darjeeling or a blend of both work wonderfully too!
• Can I make Masala Chai ahead of time? You can brew the tea concentrate ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Then, just add milk and sugar when you’re ready to drink it.
• How do I adjust the sweetness of my Chai? Start with 1 teaspoon of sugar and add more to taste. You can also use honey or another sweetener.
• What are the health benefits of Masala Chai? Masala Chai is packed with antioxidants and can help boost your immunity. Ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, and cardamom aids digestion.
• Can I use powdered ginger and cardamom instead of fresh? Yes, you can! Use about ¼ teaspoon of powdered ginger and ½ teaspoon of powdered cardamom. However, fresh spices will always give you the best flavor.