Homemade Chai: the simple recipe for a warm, soothing spiced tea

When the weather starts to dip, there's nothing like a warming cup of homemade chai to keep the cold at bay. Masala chai is a famous Indian beverage that has become popular worldwide, thanks to its soothing, delicious flavors. To make homemade chai is easy – all you need is some black tea, milk, and your favorite blend of spices.

It only takes several minutes to make, and it's a tasty way to get these healthy spices into your diet. You can customize your chai any way you like. There are a wide array of spices you can use to make easy chai, so try out different blends to see what you love best.

What is Chai Tea? 

Chai is the Hindi word for tea, so to say “chai tea” is the equivalent of saying “tea tea.” Masala chai is a spiced tea, which is what most people in the Western world mean when they want to order a chai. Tea has a long history in India as a medicine. Some masala chai recipes have their origins in ancient Ayurvedic texts. As tea became popular in India, so did masala chai. From there, it ultimately spread to the rest of the world to become the much-loved beverage we enjoy today.

What are the Best Spices for Chai?

Use any type of warming spice to make your homemade chai. Make up your own spices blends based on your preferences. Try cinnamon, green cardamom, ginger, fennel, cloves, star anise, nutmeg, bay leaf, mace, or black pepper. Tweak the amounts you use to give your chai the right strength and flavor.

How to Make Easy Homemade Chai

Making chai at home couldn't be easier. Add the water and spices to a small saucepan and bring the water to a boil. Let it simmer for a few minutes, then add in the tea. Let the tea steep for a few minutes, then pour in the milk. Let the mixture come back up to a boil, then remove from the heat. Strain and pour into a cup. Add some sugar (or your preferred sweetener) and enjoy!

Tips for Easy Chai Tea

To make vegan chai, swap out the milk for plant-based milk like oat milk, almond milk, or coconut milk.

For a richer, creamier chai, use half and half or heavy cream instead of milk.

For a spicier, more flavorful chai, grind the spices before boiling them. You can also temper them by dry roasting them in a pan to help release their aromas and flavors.

How to Store Homemade Chai Tea

Chai tastes best when made fresh, but if you prepare it without the milk, it will last up to 4 days. Chai with milk in it will last up to 1 day. You can also batch the spices and store them in an airtight container in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year.

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Instructions

Add the spices and water to a saucepan. Bring to a boil.

Add tea and let the tea steep until the water takes on a dark color. Add the milk and heat until the mixture begins to boil. Remove from heat.

Strain, pour into a cup and add sugar to taste.

Notes

You can use any blend of spices to make your chai. Experiment and discover what you enjoy the most.