Masala Tea (Indian Spiced Tea) Recipe
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Recipe Category: Beverages
Cuisine: Indian
Description
Masala Tea, or Indian Spiced Tea, is a wonderfully comforting and aromatic beverage, ideal for pairing with an Indian meal or enjoying as a pick-me-up throughout the day. The fragrant blend of spices including cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves creates a rich and robust flavor, making it a beloved drink in many Indian households. This recipe can be brewed traditionally in a teapot or quickly made using a coffeemaker for added convenience. Serve it hot with a touch of sugar, honey, or milk, and enjoy the warmth it brings. It’s also delicious when served cold, though hot with a bit of sweetness is the most traditional and comforting choice.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| White cardamom pods | 2 |
| Green cardamom pods | 8 |
| Cinnamon sticks | 2 |
| Whole cloves | 4 |
| Water | 5 cups |
| Honey | To taste |
| Milk | To taste |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 0 |
| Total Fat | 0 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 3 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 0 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0 g |
| Sugars | 0 g |
| Protein | 0 g |
Instructions
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Warm the teapot: Begin by rinsing your teapot with some boiling water to warm it up. This helps the tea brew more effectively.
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Add tea and spices: Place your chosen tea and spices (white and green cardamom pods, cinnamon sticks, and whole cloves) into the teapot.
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Boil the water: Boil 5 cups of water and pour it over the tea and spices in the teapot.
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Steep: Let the mixture steep for about 5 minutes. Stir it gently to mix the flavors and ensure the spices infuse the tea thoroughly.
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Serve: Pour the tea into cups, adding a whole cardamom pod to each cup for an extra burst of fragrance. You can adjust the strength of the tea by steeping it longer if desired.
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Customize: Add sugar, honey, and/or milk to taste, depending on your sweetness and creaminess preference.
Notes:
- You can easily substitute Assam or Ceylon tea for Darjeeling, depending on what you have on hand. Teabags can also be used instead—use one or two teabags per cup of water, adjusting according to how strong you like your tea.
- For a quicker brewing method, a coffeemaker works perfectly. Just place the tea and spices in a coffee filter and brew as usual. For a 10-cup pot, using about 4 teabags should yield the right strength.
Final Thoughts
This Masala Tea recipe provides a deeply flavorful and aromatic drink that embodies the warmth and vibrancy of Indian spices. Whether enjoyed during a cozy afternoon or alongside your favorite Indian meal, it’s sure to be a hit. Try it hot for maximum comfort or cold for a refreshing twist. Enjoy the process, and don’t forget to add your favorite sweeteners and milk for the perfect cup every time!
