This homemade chai is incredibly easy to prepare and requires just four basic ingredients. Despite its simplicity, the result is a deeply flavorful and satisfying drink that can be customized to your taste. Whether you like your chai strong and robust or light and milky, this recipe allows for flexibility. It’s perfect for slow mornings, cozy evenings, or anytime you need a little pick-me-up. Plus, it can be easily adapted with spices to make masala chai.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
whole milk
water
tea powder (chai ki patti)
sugar
directions
Combine Ingredients: In a saucepan or pot, combine the milk, water, tea powder, and sugar.
Bring to a Boil: Place the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil.
Simmer: Once it begins to boil, reduce the heat to prevent spilling. Let it simmer for 3 to 4 minutes, or until the color changes from milky white to a light brown shade. Stir occasionally to prevent the tea powder from sticking to the bottom.
Adjust Strength (Optional): If the tea isn’t strong enough for your liking, add a little more tea powder and simmer briefly.
Strain and Serve: Remove from heat and strain the tea into a pot or cup using a fine mesh strainer. Discard the tea powder and serve the tea hot.
Masala Chai: Add whole spices like cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, or a pinch of chai masala powder for a spiced version.
Ginger Tea: Add a few slices of fresh ginger while simmering for a warming, digestive-friendly twist.
Mint Chai: Add fresh mint leaves for a cooling, aromatic note.
Vegan Chai: Replace whole milk with almond milk, cashew milk, or oat milk.
Sweeter Chai: Increase sugar to 1.5 tablespoons if you prefer a sweeter cup.
Thick and Creamy Chai: Skip the water and use only milk for a richer version.
Light Chai: Increase the water-to-milk ratio for a thinner consistency.
Using Tea Bags: If using tea bags, add an extra bag for stronger flavor.
Cold Chai: Let the tea cool and serve over ice for an iced chai variation.
Jaggery Chai: Use jaggery instead of sugar for a deeper, caramelized sweetness.
storage/reheating
Storage: Fresh chai is best served immediately. However, if you have leftovers, let the tea cool and store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Reheating: Reheat gently in a saucepan over medium heat until hot. Avoid boiling to maintain the smooth flavor.
FAQs
What kind of tea powder should I use for Indian chai?
Black tea powder specifically for chai, such as Red Label or Wagh Bakri, works best. Avoid flavored or delicate teas.
Can I use tea bags instead of loose tea powder?
Yes. Use at least one extra bag than usual to achieve the strong flavor typical of Indian tea.
How do I make the tea stronger?
Simmer for a bit longer or add more tea powder to intensify the flavor.
Can I make chai without sugar?
Yes. You can omit sugar entirely or use a sweetener like honey or jaggery instead.
What’s the ideal water-to-milk ratio?
A 1:1 ratio is traditional, but you can adjust based on how thick or light you like your tea.
Can I add spices to this basic chai?
Absolutely. Common additions include cardamom, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, or even ready-made chai masala.
How can I make chai for one person?
Just divide the ingredients accordingly—use ¼ cup milk, ¼ cup water, about ¾ tsp tea powder, and adjust sugar to taste.
What if the tea becomes bitter?
Over-simmering or using too much tea powder can cause bitterness. Keep the simmering time brief and adjust the quantity of tea.
Can I use plant-based milk for vegan chai?
Yes, almond milk, cashew milk, or oat milk work well. Avoid coconut milk as its flavor may overpower the tea.
How long should I simmer the tea?
Simmer for 3–4 minutes after boiling. This helps develop flavor without bitterness.
Conclusion
Indian Tea, or Chai, is more than just a beverage—it’s a daily ritual that brings comfort and warmth to millions. With this simple and adaptable recipe, you can create an authentic cup of chai at home in just minutes. Whether you enjoy it plain or dressed up with spices, this milk tea is a timeless classic that satisfies every time. Brew a cup, serve it hot, and savor a taste of tradition.
Indian Tea, also known as Milk Tea or Chai, is a comforting, aromatic beverage made with black tea leaves, milk, water, and sugar. Perfect for breakfast, evening snacks, or anytime you need a warm, soothing drink.
Ingredients
2 cups whole milk
2 cups water
2 tablespoons tea powder (chai ki patti)
2 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
Instructions
In a saucepan, combine the milk, water, tea powder, and sugar.
Place over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil.
Reduce heat and let it simmer for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the color changes to light brown.
Adjust strength by adding more tea powder if desired and simmer briefly.
Remove from heat and strain the tea into cups using a fine mesh strainer. Discard the tea leaves and serve hot.
Notes
Masala Chai: Add cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, or chai masala for a spiced version.
Ginger Tea: Add fresh ginger slices while simmering.
Mint Chai: Add fresh mint leaves for an aromatic touch.
Vegan Option: Replace milk with almond, cashew, or oat milk.
Sweeter Chai: Increase sugar to taste.
Thick and Creamy: Use only milk instead of water.
Light Chai: Increase the water-to-milk ratio for a thinner tea.
Cold Chai: Serve over ice for iced tea.
Jaggery Chai: Use jaggery instead of sugar for a richer sweetness.
