Kadak Masala Chai

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Kadak Masala Chai recipe delivers the authentic taste of Indian tea with a blend of warming spices, creating a perfect combination of bold and soothing flavors. The ginger and spices give it that extra zing, while the milk adds creaminess and richness. It’s quick to make and full of flavor, giving you a cozy feeling with every sip.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 cup water
1 clove
1/4 tsp fennel seeds
1 cardamom pod (premium quality, or 2 small cardamom pods)
1 black peppercorn
1/4-inch cinnamon stick, sliced in half
1/2-inch piece ginger, grated or crushed
1 1/2 tsp tea leaves (Wagh Bakri recommended)
1/3 cup organic whole milk (use 1/2 cup for a creamier chai)

Directions

1. Heat Water
   In a pot, bring 1 cup of water to a simmer over medium-high heat.

2. Crush the Spices
   While the water heats up, crush the clove, fennel seeds, black peppercorn, and cinnamon stick using a mortar and pestle. Set aside the cardamom pods to add later.

3. Add Spices and Ginger
   Once the water starts to simmer, add the crushed spices to the pot. Grate the ginger directly into the pot so that the ginger juices infuse the tea.

4. Boil the Water
   Reduce the heat to medium and bring the water to a boil. Let it boil for about 1-2 minutes until the color of the water changes and the spices release their fragrance.

5. Add Tea Leaves
   Add the tea leaves and boil for another 30–60 seconds. Make sure to keep an eye on it to prevent overflow.

6. Add Milk and Cardamom
   Add the milk and cardamom pods to the tea, and give it a good mix to combine all the ingredients. Let the tea come to a boil again, but be sure to stay close so it doesn’t overflow.

7. Let It Brew
   Once the tea comes to a boil, turn off the heat and cover the pot with a lid. Let it sit for a minute to allow the flavors to meld.

8. Strain and Serve
   Strain the chai into a cup or mug. Add sugar if desired, and enjoy it with a digestive cookie for the ultimate tea experience.

Servings and timing

Servings: 1 large cup
Prep Time: 2 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a couple of extra black peppercorns for a more intense spice flavor.

• Caffeine-Free Option: Use herbal tea leaves or rooibos in place of traditional black tea for a caffeine-free version.

• Sweetener Options: Sweeten with honey, jaggery, or stevia instead of sugar for a different touch.

• Non-Dairy Version: Use almond milk or oat milk instead of whole milk for a dairy-free alternative.

Storage/Reheating

Masala chai is best served fresh, but if you have leftovers, store the tea in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1-2 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water or milk to restore the creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I make Kadak Masala Chai with any type of tea?

Traditionally, strong black tea is used for this recipe. Wagh Bakri or Assam tea works best due to its bold flavor, but you can use any strong tea variety.

Can I make this chai in advance?

You can prepare the chai base in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat and add milk when you’re ready to serve.

How can I make the chai stronger?

If you prefer a stronger chai, increase the amount of tea leaves or let the tea simmer longer before adding the milk.

Can I add more spices?

Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the spice levels to your liking. Add nutmeg, star anise, or even a bit of vanilla to create your own signature blend.

How do I make my chai less bitter?

Don’t boil the tea leaves for too long, as over-boiling can make the tea bitter. Strain it quickly once the flavor is well-infused.

What can I serve with Kadak Masala Chai?

Chai pairs wonderfully with biscuits, cookies, or any light snacks like samosas or pakoras.

Can I make it vegan?

Yes, use plant-based milk like almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk. You can also use a plant-based sweetener.

Can I freeze Kadak Masala Chai?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the chai base (without milk) and reheat it later. Add milk afterward.

Can I adjust the sweetness?

Yes, feel free to add more or less sugar depending on your preference. You can also experiment with other sweeteners like jaggery or maple syrup.

How spicy is this chai?

The spiciness of the chai comes from the ginger and the spices. You can adjust the amount of ginger or add more black pepper for a spicier flavor.

Conclusion

Kadak Masala Chai is a robust, flavorful beverage that brings the warmth of spices and the richness of milk together in perfect harmony. This tea is not just a drink, but an experience—each sip delivers the comforting flavors of India’s beloved chai. With its aromatic spices, strong tea base, and creamy texture, this is sure to become a favorite part of your tea routine.