Chai Ka Masala Recipe – Homemade Spice Powder for Tea
When the chill of winter sets in or during the monsoon season, there’s nothing more comforting than a hot, steaming cup of Masala Tea. The rich aroma and spicy warmth provide an instant energy boost and a sense of comfort. The key ingredient that makes this tea so special is the Chai Ka Masala, or Masala Tea Powder, which is a blend of aromatic spices. This homemade spice powder can be prepared in advance and stored for 4 to 6 months, ensuring that you can enjoy your favorite tea at any time.
By making your own Chai Ka Masala, you not only get the fresh, flavorful experience of homemade spices, but you also have the advantage of controlling the strength and intensity of the flavors. With the perfect balance of cardamom, cloves, ginger, black pepper, cinnamon, and nutmeg, this spice mix can elevate any cup of tea, making it a truly rejuvenating experience.
Ingredients for Chai Ka Masala
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cardamom (Elaichi) Pods/Seeds | 1/4 cup |
| Cloves (Laung) | 1/4 cup |
| Dry Ginger Powder | 1/4 cup |
| Whole Black Peppercorns | 1 tablespoon |
| Cinnamon Stick (Dalchini) | 2 inches |
| Nutmeg Powder | 1 teaspoon |
Instructions for Making Chai Ka Masala
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Prepare the Spices: Begin by placing a pan on medium heat. Add the whole cloves, cardamom pods (or seeds), black peppercorns, and cinnamon stick, one by one, into the pan. You can add them in any order as thereβs no particular sequence to follow.
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Dry Roasting: Dry roast the spices for a few minutes, stirring occasionally. The spices will start to release their roasted aroma, indicating they are done. Keep the heat moderate to avoid burning them.
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Cool Down: Once the spices have been roasted to perfection, turn off the heat. Transfer the roasted spices onto a plate to cool down.
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Blend the Spices: After the roasted spices have cooled, add the dry ginger powder and nutmeg powder to the plate. Then, place all the spices into a blender and blend until you achieve a smooth, fine powder.
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Storage: Your homemade Chai Ka Masala is now ready! Transfer the masala to an airtight container, and store it in a glass jar in the freezer. It will stay fresh for up to 4-6 months.
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How to Use: To prepare Masala Chai, add 1/4 teaspoon of this Chai Ka Masala powder for every 2 cups of tea. The amount can be adjusted based on your flavor preference. For a more intense flavor, you can add a pinch of masala for black tea, or stick to 1/4 teaspoon for a milder flavor if you’re making tea with milk.
Tips for the Perfect Cup of Masala Tea
- Customize to Taste: The amount of Chai Ka Masala can vary based on personal preferences. Some prefer a stronger spice mix, while others may want it subtle. Feel free to experiment and adjust the spice mix to suit your taste.
- Milk or Black Tea: If you prefer a stronger tea without milk, just add a pinch of the masala for a quick zing. For tea with milk, stick to the recommended 1/4 teaspoon for two cups to keep the flavor balanced.
- Experiment: Every tea lover has a different method for preparing their tea, and this Chai Ka Masala allows you to tailor your perfect cup. Whether it’s a rich, full-bodied brew or a lighter, spicier version, enjoy experimenting to find your ideal taste.
Conclusion
This homemade Chai Ka Masala is a must-have for any tea enthusiast, especially for those who love the warmth and healing properties of spices. With its blend of cardamom, cloves, black pepper, ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg, your tea will never be the same again. Not only is it simple to make, but you can store it for months, ensuring you have a fresh and flavorful addition to your tea for every season. Enjoy your cup of Masala Tea made with love and the perfect homemade spice mix!
