Do you want to know what masala chai is? Maybe you have heard conflicting answers and want to know what is true? Or are you curious and want to know more? Whatever the reason is that brought you here, Honest Food Talks are here to tell you what masala chai is!
Finding out what masala chai is can be tricky, especially if you have never had it before. You head online for some guidance but are met with page after page of confusing and conflicting answers, leaving you unsure where to turn or who to trust.
Well, no more! That is where we come in to save the day! Keep reading to find out what masala chai is, what it’s made of, and everything you need to know! Get ready to become an expert today.
What Is Masala Chai?
Masala chai is an Indian beverage that is popular across South Asia. Masala chai features black tea that is brewed with sugar, milk, and fragrant spices. It is often referred to as Masala Tea and is a relaxing and flavorful drink enjoyed throughout the day.
There are other versions of masala chai too, where herbs like Tulsi (holy basil) and pudina (mint) are added to change the flavor. Masala chai is usually served with sandwiches, samosas, onion pakoras, or biscuits.
What is fantastic about masala chai is that everyone seems to have their own recipe! There is no right or wrong way to make it. Every family will have their own unique recipe for making masala chai, including how much milk and water is used, the combination of spices, and what kind of tea is used.
This is how you can control the flavor and strength of masala chai, adjusting it to your tastes.
What Is Masala Chai Made Of?
As we mentioned earlier, masala chai is made from tea, with spices, milk, and sugar added to it. Traditionally, black loose tea leaves are used, but a black tea bag tends to be the preferred choice. Where possible, loose tea leaves tend to give a more flavorful taste.
Other teas are often used too, but for a traditional masala chai, black tea is still the preferred option. Spies are also added, but you can choose which ones you want! Cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, fennel, and peppercorns are the most commonly used. However, basil is often added along with other spices.
Sugar, milk, and water are also added to sweeten and make the tea. Whole milk is typically used, but again there is flexibility here. You can add whichever milk you prefer to your masala chai. These days, oat and soy milk are also used to offer a dairy-free masala chai.
What Does Masala Chai Taste Like?
How masala chai tastes will vary depending on the spices and type of tea used. However, you can expect it to be bold with spicy flavors and a creaminess from the milk that cuts through the spice.
There are usually notes of ginger, pepper, cinnamon, and cardamom in masala chai. Sweetness comes from sugar or honey which are often added to balance out the spice. You will also get the flavor from the black tea used, complimenting the other flavors well.
What Is The Difference Between Masala Chai And Regular Chai?
The main difference is the addition of species. A regular chai usually features black tea and hot milk, which is sometimes sweetened depending on your preferences. Masala chai is also black tea and milk, but spices are added.
The spices added to masala chai change the taste, adding a bold flavor and some spiced undertones to the drink. It is easy to taste the difference when drinking masala chai and regular chai, even if they both appear the same!
Is Masala Chai Good For You?
Masala chai is believed to have many health benefits. The addition of cinnamon and clove in masala chai can improve your immune system, helping to ward off any infections and diseases.
Masala chai can also help to reduce blood sugar levels, aid digestion, and help with weight loss! This is down to the nutrients in the ingredients of masala chai, which when consumed regularly as part of a healthy and balanced diet can aid your immune system and help your body function at its best!
Final Thoughts
And there you have it, masala chai is an Indian tea that features black tea, milk, sugar, and some spices. While everyone makes their masala chai differently, you can expect a bold and fragrant tea with spices that can boost your immune system!