How To Make Masala Chai That Warms Winter Mornings

Nov 12, 2025

By: Isha Agarwal

Choose Fresh Spices

Use fresh ginger, cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon for a rich, authentic flavour. Fresh spices release essential oils, making your chai aromatic and warming.

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Perfect Tea Leaves

Opt for strong black tea like Assam or Darjeeling for a bold taste that balances the spices. Avoid weak teas as they get overpowered by the masala.

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Boiling Milk and Water

Start by boiling equal parts of milk and water to create a creamy base. Boiling together ensures the flavours of tea and spices infuse evenly.

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Crush Spices Slightly

Lightly crush cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon to release their flavour without overpowering the tea. Whole spices give a rustic, traditional taste.

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Add Ginger for Warmth

Freshly grated ginger adds heat and aids digestion, perfect for winter mornings. Adjust the quantity based on your spice preference.

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Simmer Slowly

Let the chai simmer on low heat for 5–7 minutes. This allows the tea leaves and spices to blend fully, creating a robust and aromatic chai.

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Sweeten Naturally

Use jaggery or brown sugar instead of refined sugar for a healthier twist. Sweetness balances the spice and enhances the warming effect.

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Strain Carefully

Strain the tea to remove all spices and tea leaves for a smooth drinking experience. A fine mesh strainer works best to capture even small bits of spice.

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Serve Hot

Serve immediately in cups or traditional clay glasses to enjoy the full aroma and flavour. Chai tastes best when steaming hot on a cold morning.

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Optional Enhancements

Add a pinch of black pepper or nutmeg for extra warmth. Experiment with flavours but maintain the classic masala chai essence.

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Thanks For Reading!

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