Authentic Indian Masala Chai Recipe – Condensed Milk & Evaporated Milk

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Authentic Indian Masala Chai Recipe – Condensed Milk & Evaporated Milk

Okay, let’s be real. Is there anything more comforting than a warm cup of masala chai? For me, it’s pure nostalgia. I remember my dadi (grandmother) making it every evening, the aroma filling the whole house. This recipe is my attempt to recreate that magic – a rich, creamy, and perfectly spiced chai that’ll warm your soul. It uses a little trick with condensed and evaporated milk for extra indulgence!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t just any chai recipe. It’s quick, easy, and delivers that authentic Indian flavor you crave. The condensed and evaporated milk create a wonderfully smooth and creamy texture that’s seriously addictive. Plus, it’s totally customizable – you can adjust the spices to your liking. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll ditch the tea bags for good!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make a perfect cup:

• 1 cup water (240ml)
• 1 tablespoon Black tea powder (approx. 7-8 grams)
• 2-3 tablespoons Sweetened condensed milk (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon Evaporated milk (optional, but adds extra richness)
• 1 pinch Salt

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few things can really make or break your chai.

• Black Tea Powder: This is key! I prefer a strong, robust tea. Assam tea is fantastic for a bold flavor, while Ceylon tea offers a slightly lighter, more floral note. You can even blend them!
• Condensed & Evaporated Milk: This is where the magic happens. The condensed milk adds sweetness and creaminess, while the evaporated milk boosts the richness without making it overly sweet. Don’t skip these if you want that authentic dhaba-style chai!
• Spice it Up: While this recipe focuses on the base chai, feel free to add your favorite spices! A small piece of ginger, a couple of cardamom pods, or a pinch of cinnamon can take it to the next level.
• Quality Matters: Seriously, a good quality tea powder makes all the difference. Don’t be afraid to spend a little extra – your tastebuds will thank you.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get brewing!

1. First, pour the water into a saucepan and bring it to a boil. You’ll know it’s ready when you see nice, rolling bubbles.
2. Once boiling, turn off the heat and add the black tea powder. Let it steep for about 5 minutes – or follow the instructions on your tea package. This is where the flavor develops, so don’t rush it!
3. Now, grab a fine-mesh strainer and carefully strain the brewed tea into your favorite mug. This gets rid of those tea leaves and gives you a smooth, clean cup.
4. Add the condensed milk, evaporated milk (if using), and a tiny pinch of salt. Stir well until everything is nicely combined.
5. Here’s the fun part! Pour the mixture between two cups repeatedly from a height. This creates a lovely, frothy layer on top – it’s all about the aeration!
6. Serve immediately in a preheated glass for a hot, comforting chai, or pour over ice for a refreshing chilled version.

Expert Tips

Want to take your chai game to the next level? Here are a few pro tips:

• The Froth Factor: Pouring from a height is crucial for that frothy layer. The higher you pour, the more froth you’ll get!
• Sweetness Control: Start with 2 tablespoons of condensed milk and adjust to your liking. Everyone has a different sweet spot!
• Steeping Time: Don’t over-steep the tea, or it will become bitter. 5 minutes is usually perfect, but you can experiment to find what works best for you.
• Preheat Your Glass: This keeps your chai warmer for longer. A quick rinse with hot water does the trick.

Variations

Chai is all about personalization! Here are a few ways to switch things up:

• Vegan Masala Chai: Swap the condensed and evaporated milk for plant-based alternatives like oat milk or cashew milk. They add a lovely creaminess without the dairy.
• Spice Level Adjustments: My friend, Priya, loves a really spicy chai. She adds a small piece of grated ginger and a few crushed cardamom pods to the boiling water. Feel free to experiment with different spices!
• Festival Adaptations: During Diwali, my family always serves chai with namak pare (savory crackers). During Holi, it’s paired with gujiya (sweet dumplings).
• Iced Masala Chai: Perfect for a hot day! Just brew the chai as usual, let it cool, and pour it over ice.

Serving Suggestions

Chai and snacks are a match made in heaven! Here are a few of my favorites:

• Biscuits (digestives are a classic!)
• Samosas – a perfect savory pairing.
• Traditional Indian snacks like mathri or chakli.
• Honestly? It’s delicious all on its own too!

Storage Instructions

While freshly brewed chai is always best, you can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The flavor might diminish slightly, but it’s still pretty good. Just reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers!

• What type of black tea is best for Masala Chai? Assam or Ceylon are both excellent choices. Experiment to find your preference!
• Can I use milk powder instead of condensed/evaporated milk? You can, but it won’t have the same rich, creamy texture. It’s best to stick with the condensed and evaporated milk if possible.
• How do I adjust the spice levels in my Masala Chai? Add spices like ginger, cardamom, or cinnamon to the boiling water. Start with a small amount and adjust to your liking.
• Why is my chai not frothy? Make sure you’re pouring the mixture between two cups repeatedly from a height. That’s the key to creating the froth!
• Can I make Masala Chai ahead of time? You can brew the tea concentrate ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Then, just add the milk and spices when you’re ready to serve.

Enjoy your chai! I hope this recipe brings a little bit of Indian warmth and comfort to your day. Let me know in the comments how it turns out for you!