Masala Chai Recipes to Try at Home
Recipe suggestions:
- Cardamom & Saffron
- Green Cardamom, Black Cardamom & Clove
- Bombay Masala: Cardamom, Cinnamon, Black Pepper, Fennel, Clove, Ginger
- Lemongrass, Ginger, Cardamom, Black Pepper, Cinnamon
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Lemongrass, Ginger, Mint, Cardamom
Further Tips:
Spice Combinations
What makes a great spice mix? Balance. A well-crafted blend ensures that no single spice overpowers the others, creating a smooth, aromatic brew. We’ve experimented with hundreds of spice mixes, and here are some of our favorites. Sometimes, simplicity is key—you don’t always need five or more spices to craft an incredible chai.
Pro Tip: When using whole spices, lightly crush them with a mortar and pestle to release their essential oils. Use approximately 1/2 tsp per cup—if you make extra, save it for your next brew. Each recipe below is for two cups of chai.
Cardamom & Saffron
A rich and luxurious chai with floral and earthy undertones.
- 3 green cardamom pods
- Pinch of saffron (in the brew and as a garnish
Green Cardamom, Black Cardamom & Clove
A bold, slightly smoky chai with a deep spiced aroma.
- 2 green cardamom pods
- 1 black cardamom pod
- 3 cloves
Bombay Masala: Cardamom, Cinnamon, Black Pepper, Fennel, Clove, Ginger
A well-rounded and mildly spicy chai inspired by Mumbai’s street stalls.
- 2 green cardamom pods
- ¼ stick cinnamon
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp fennel
- 2 cloves
- ½ knob grated ginger
Lemongrass, Ginger, Cardamom, Black Pepper, Cinnamon
A vibrant and warming chai with citrusy and spicy notes.
- 2 green cardamom pods
- 1 stick cinnamon
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ stalk lemongrass
- 1 knob grated ginger
Lemongrass, Ginger, Mint, Cardamom
A refreshing and slightly cooling chai with a zesty finish.
- 2 green cardamom pods
- ½ stalk lemongrass
- 5 fresh mint leaves
- 1 knob grated ginger
Choosing the Right Tea
The foundation of a great masala chai is high-quality tea. There are two main types—CTC (Crush, Tear, Curl) and loose leaf. For authentic masala chai, CTC black tea is a must. Its bold, full-bodied flavor withstands vigorous boiling without turning bitter. Our Assam CTC tea is the perfect balance of strength and smoothness. Feeling adventurous? Try Kenyan CTC or Sri Lankan CTC to explore different flavor profiles.
Tip: Use 1/2 tbsp of tea per cup, adjusting to taste. A properly brewed chai should have a deep, dark brown-orange hue.
The Role of Milk
We’re big believers in whole milk—it adds richness and depth to the chai. Across India, you’ll also find buffalo milk or condensed milk in traditional recipes. If you prefer dairy-free alternatives, we recommend Oatly Barista for the best texture.
Milk-to-water ratio: 50/50 is ideal, but for a creamier chai, use 100% milk.
Sweetening Your Chai
Sugar levels are a personal choice, and we’ve all had chai that’s too sweet. For a richer, caramel-like sweetness, try jaggery powder—it enhances the flavour and is a healthier alternative to refined sugar.
Brewing Process
When in doubt, keep it brewing. An under-brewed chai lacks depth and feels thin on the palate. Here’s our recommended method:
- Start with water – Add the spice mix and sugar to boiling water.
- Add the milk & tea – Once boiling, add the milk and CTC tea.
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Let it brew – Allow the mixture to rise and brew for at least one minute.
The Perfect Chai Vessel
Great chai deserves the right cup. In India, chai is traditionally served in small glass tumblers or clay cups (kulhads) that enhance the experience. Check out our handcrafted clay cups to elevate your chai ritual.
Enjoy experimenting with these recipes and let us know your favorite blend!
Want to make the perfect masala chai at home? Check out our masala chai kit for an authentic experience, or explore our full collection of teas and accessories here.
