Cardamom Tea Recipe – Authentic Indian Masala Chai at Home

Last Updated on 6 months ago by Neha Deshmukh

Cardamom Tea Recipe – Authentic Indian Masala Chai At Home

Hey everyone! If there’s one drink that instantly transports me back to my childhood in India, it’s a steaming cup of cardamom tea – or masala chai as we lovingly call it. The aroma alone is enough to make everything feel right with the world. I remember my grandmother patiently brewing it every evening, and now I’m so excited to share my version with you. It’s surprisingly easy to make, and trust me, it’s so worth it.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cardamom tea isn’t just a drink; it’s an experience. It’s warm, comforting, and subtly sweet with that beautiful, fragrant cardamom flavor. It’s perfect for a cozy morning, an afternoon pick-me-up, or a relaxing evening. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to explore the wonderful world of Indian spices! This recipe is quick, simple, and delivers that authentic masala chai taste you’ve been craving.

Ingredients

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

• 1.5 cups water (approx. 350ml)
• 1.5 tbsp tea powder (approx. 18g) – I prefer a strong Assam or CTC blend
• 3 tbsp sugar (approx. 42g) – adjust to your sweetness preference!
• 3 green cardamom pods
• 1 cup milk (approx. 240ml) – full fat or your preferred type

Ingredient Notes

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

Cardamom: Exploring Varieties & Freshness

Green cardamom is the star here! You want pods that are plump and fragrant. I always buy mine whole and crush them just before using them – the flavor is so much better. Black cardamom is sometimes used, but it has a smokier flavor and isn’t traditional for this recipe.

Tea Powder: Choosing the Right Blend for Masala Chai

For a classic masala chai, a strong black tea is best. Assam or CTC (Crush, Tear, Curl) are popular choices. CTC gives a lovely robust flavor and a nice, strong brew. Experiment to find your favorite!

Milk: Full Fat vs. Low Fat – Impact on Flavor

Traditionally, full-fat milk is used for a richer, creamier tea. However, you can absolutely use low-fat or plant-based milk if you prefer. Just know that it will slightly alter the flavor and texture. I sometimes use oat milk for a subtly sweet and creamy vegan version.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get brewing!

First, gently crush those cardamom pods to release all those lovely seeds. Then, give them a light grind – you don’t want a powder, just a bit broken up.

In a saucepan, combine the water, crushed cardamom, tea powder, and sugar. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer. We want to simmer it until the water reduces by about half – this usually takes around 5-7 minutes.

While that’s simmering, boil your milk separately. Once the tea mixture has reduced, pour in the boiled milk. Now, simmer on low heat, gently whisking 3-4 times. This helps create that lovely, slightly frothy texture.

Finally, once the tea thickens slightly (it won’t be super thick, just a little more body), strain it into your favorite cups. Serve hot and enjoy!

Expert Tips

• Don’t overboil the tea mixture, or it can become bitter.
• Simmering gently is key for a smooth, flavorful tea.
• Adjust the sugar to your liking – start with less and add more if needed.
• Using freshly crushed cardamom makes a huge difference!

Variations

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

Spice Level: Adjusting Cardamom Intensity

If you really love cardamom, feel free to add an extra pod or two. You can also add a tiny pinch of ground nutmeg for a warm, cozy flavor.

Vegan Cardamom Tea

Simply substitute the dairy milk with your favorite plant-based milk! Almond, soy, or oat milk all work beautifully.

Festival Adaptations: Special Occasion Chai

During festivals, my family loves to add a pinch of saffron strands to the tea for a luxurious touch. It adds a beautiful color and a subtle floral aroma.

Regional Variations: South Indian vs. North Indian Styles

South Indian masala chai often includes ginger and sometimes even a few peppercorns. North Indian styles tend to focus more on cardamom and sometimes cinnamon.

Serving Suggestions

Cardamom tea is wonderful on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with:

• Traditional Indian biscuits (like biskut)
• A slice of homemade cake
• Savory snacks like samosas or pakoras

Storage Instructions

Cardamom tea is best enjoyed fresh! However, if you have leftovers, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. The flavor might diminish slightly, but it will still be delicious.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions:

What is the best type of tea to use for Masala Chai?

Assam or CTC black tea are the most traditional choices. They provide a strong base for the spices.

Can I make Cardamom Tea ahead of time?

While it’s best fresh, you can brew the tea concentrate (without the milk) and store it in the fridge for a day or two. Just add the milk and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy.

How can I adjust the sweetness of the tea?

Start with less sugar and add more to taste. You can also use honey or another sweetener if you prefer.

What if I don’t have cardamom pods – can I use cardamom powder?

You can, but the flavor won’t be as vibrant. Use about ¼ teaspoon of cardamom powder per pod.

Why is my Cardamom Tea bitter?

Overboiling the tea mixture is the most common cause of bitterness. Make sure to simmer gently and don’t let it reduce too much.

Is it necessary to strain the tea, or can I leave the spices in?

Straining is recommended for a smoother drinking experience. However, if you don’t mind a little texture, you can leave the spices in!