Masala Chai — The Perfect Indian Tea in 3 Steps

A good masala chai brings customers back. The secret is in the spice balance and the brewing time.

Ingredients (2 cups)

• 1.5 cups water, 1 cup milk
• 2 tsp loose black tea (Assam)
• 2 tsp sugar (to taste)
• 2 green cardamom, 1 small piece ginger, 1 small stick cinnamon, 2 cloves

Method

1. Crush the cardamom, ginger, cinnamon and cloves. Add to water and bring to a boil.
2. Add tea leaves and sugar, boil 2 minutes so the spices infuse.
3. Add milk, bring to a rolling boil twice, then strain and serve hot.

Café tip

For "cutting chai" flavour, let it boil an extra minute — stronger colour and a deeper taste customers love.