The Best Homemade Chai Recipe

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This homemade chai recipe is warm, cozy, and full of flavor, making it the perfect drink for chilly mornings or relaxing evenings. You’ll love how easy it is to customize, and the aroma alone will make your kitchen smell amazing.

• Rich, Spiced Flavor: A blend of cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger gives this chai its deep, comforting taste.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples, you won’t need any fancy tools or hard-to-find items.
• Endlessly Customizable: Adjust the sweetness or spice level to make it just the way you like it—every sip feels like a hug in a mug.

Recipe

Chai, a traditional Indian spiced tea, is a comforting and aromatic beverage perfect for any time of the day. This homemade version allows you to customize the spice level and sweetness to your preference. Below is a simple yet authentic recipe to help you brew a delicious cup of chai at home.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups water
• 1 cup milk
• 2 teaspoons black tea leaves (or 2 tea bags)
• 2-3 teaspoons sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1-inch piece fresh ginger, crushed
• 4-5 green cardamom pods, lightly crushed
• 1 small cinnamon stick
• 2-3 cloves

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan, combine water, crushed ginger, cardamom pods, cinnamon stick, and cloves. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
2. Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the spices to infuse.
3. Add the tea leaves or tea bags and simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
4. Pour in the milk and add sugar. Stir well and let the mixture come to a gentle boil.
5. Once boiling, turn off the heat and strain the chai into cups using a fine mesh strainer.
6. Serve hot and enjoy.

Notes:

• Adjust the amount of milk and sugar based on your preference.
• For a stronger flavor, increase the simmering time of the spices.
• You can add a pinch of black pepper for an extra kick.

Equipment:

• Saucepan
• Fine mesh strainer
• Measuring spoons

Time:

Prep time: 5 minutes

Cooking time: 10 minutes

Cuisine:

Indian

Serving:

2 servings

Nutrition

This homemade chai recipe provides a comforting blend of spices and flavors. Below is the nutritional breakdown per serving (based on an average serving size).

What To Serve With It

I love pairing my homemade chai with something sweet or savory, like buttery cookies or spiced samosas, to balance its rich flavors. If you’re craving a snack, try toasted nuts or fresh fruit—they’re simple but make the chai taste even better. Trust me, the right bite can turn your cozy drink into a full-on treat.

Perfect Pairing Ideas

When you’ve got a cozy cup of homemade chai in hand, it’s always nice to pair it with something equally comforting or a little surprising. I love serving mine with warm, flaky samosas—their savory spices complement the chai’s sweetness perfectly. For a sweeter match, try soft, cardamom-spiced cookies or a slice of spiced apple cake; they’re just right for dunking. If you’re feeling adventurous, pair chai with a cheese plate featuring mild, creamy cheeses and dried fruits. Breakfast-wise, I adore it with a plate of cinnamon-spiced French toast or oatmeal with a drizzle of honey. The options are endless!

Complementary Snack Options

Pairing homemade chai with the right snack can turn a simple moment into something special. I love dunking crispy, buttery biscuits into my chai—they soak up the spices perfectly. For something sweet, try soft, cardamom-spiced cookies or a slice of moist banana bread. If you’re craving savory, samosas or spiced nuts add a nice crunch. My personal favorite? A warm, flaky paratha with a drizzle of honey. It’s all about balance—the snack shouldn’t overpower the chai’s rich flavor. Experiment to find your perfect match, and don’t be afraid to mix it up. Happy sipping!

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younes

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