Ginger Cardamom Chai (Spice-Infused Indian Style Milk Tea)
Description:
Ginger Cardamom Chai is an aromatic and soothing tea with a perfect blend of spices, enriched by the comforting warmth of milk. Known for its distinctive preparation and rich flavor profile, this traditional Indian tea brings together the heat from fresh ginger, the fragrant spice of cardamom, and the boldness of Assam tea leaves. It’s an indulgent and relaxing beverage that can be enjoyed at any time of day, whether as a refreshing start to your morning or as a calming afternoon treat. Perfect for tea parties, a cozy snack, or even as a pick-me-up during chilly days.
Cuisine: Indian
Course: Snack
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Water | 2 cups |
| Cardamom (Elaichi) Pods/Seeds | 4 pods, crushed |
| Ginger | 2 tablespoons, grated or crushed |
| Assam Tea Leaves | 2 teaspoons, adjustable based on preference |
| Milk | 1 cup |
| Sugar | 4 teaspoons, adjustable |
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Tea Base:
Begin by placing a saucepan on medium heat. Add the 2 cups of water, followed by the 2 teaspoons of Assam tea leaves, grated or crushed ginger, and the crushed cardamom pods. Keep the cardamom peels intact for maximum flavor infusion. -
Boil and Simmer:
Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium and let the mixture simmer for about 5 to 7 minutes. This allows the water to take on a lovely yellowish hue, as the spices and tea start to release their flavors. -
Sweeten the Tea:
Once the tea has brewed to a mild yellow color, add 4 teaspoons of sugar (adjust according to your sweetness preference). Allow the mixture to simmer for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until the sugar has fully dissolved, and the tea attains a rich, red hue. If you prefer a lighter tea, you can reduce the simmering time and check the color. -
Add Milk:
After the tea reaches the desired strength, pour in the 1 cup of milk and let it simmer for another 2 to 3 minutes. The milk will create a creamy texture that balances the spices beautifully. -
Strain and Serve:
Turn off the heat and strain the tea through a fine sieve to remove the solids. Pour the warm, fragrant Ginger Cardamom Chai into a cup. -
Enjoy:
Serve your Ginger Cardamom Tea as an invigorating breakfast drink or alongside savory snacks such as Onion Vegetable Bajji, Omapodi Mixture, or classic Samosas for a delightful tea-time experience.
Serving Suggestions:
Ginger Cardamom Chai is ideal for sipping during a peaceful tea party, as a comforting companion during chilly evenings, or as an energizing start to your morning. Pair it with delicious Indian snacks like Onion Vegetable Bajji, Omapodi Mixture, or Samosas for a complete experience that captures the essence of Indian culinary traditions.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
While the nutritional content of Ginger Cardamom Chai may vary depending on specific ingredient choices (such as milk or sugar adjustments), here is a general approximation for one serving:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~150 kcal |
| Total Fat | ~5 g |
| Saturated Fat | ~3 g |
| Cholesterol | ~15 mg |
| Sodium | ~50 mg |
| Carbohydrates | ~25 g |
| Fiber | ~0 g |
| Sugars | ~20 g |
| Protein | ~4 g |
Tips:
- Adjust the Spice Level: You can modify the intensity of the ginger and cardamom based on your taste. More ginger will give a stronger, zesty flavor, while cardamom will add more of a floral note.
- Sweeten to Taste: If you prefer a sweeter or less sweet chai, adjust the sugar to suit your preferences.
- Vegan Version: For a dairy-free version, you can substitute regular milk with almond milk, soy milk, or any other plant-based alternative.
Whether you’re enjoying a quiet afternoon or hosting a gathering, this Ginger Cardamom Chai is sure to bring a touch of warmth and comfort with every sip.
