Description
A warm and aromatic Chai Tea Latte recipe blending fragrant spices like cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, peppercorns, and fresh ginger with Darjeeling tea, milk, and sugar for a comforting and flavorful beverage perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients
Spices and Tea
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 4 green cardamom pods
- 4 black cardamom pods
- 10 whole cloves
- 2 peppercorns
- 5 thin slices fresh ginger
- 4 teaspoons Darjeeling tea leaves
Liquids and Sweetener
- ⅔ cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 cups water
Instructions
- Simmer spices: Add the cinnamon stick, green and black cardamom pods, cloves, peppercorns, fresh ginger slices, and water to a medium saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer gently for about 10 minutes to extract the flavors.
- Add milk and sugar: Pour in the whole milk and granulated sugar, then return the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Stir continuously to dissolve the sugar completely into the chai base.
- Add tea leaves: Stir in the Darjeeling tea leaves, then remove the saucepan from heat. Cover it and let the tea steep for 3 to 5 minutes, allowing the tea to develop a rich, robust flavor to your desired strength.
- Froth some of the tea with milk: Pour a small amount of the chai mixture through a fine mesh strainer into a small metal carafe or similar container. Add a splash of additional milk and froth using a milk frother, or alternatively, pour into a lidded jar and shake vigorously to create a creamy foam. Set this froth aside.
- Strain into mugs: Strain the remaining chai tea mixture through the fine mesh strainer into two mugs, ensuring a smooth and spice-infused tea. Top each mug with the prepared milk foam for a luxurious chai latte finish.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of sugar to your taste preference or substitute with honey or a sugar alternative.
- For a stronger spice flavor, you can increase simmering time slightly, but avoid burning the spices.
- If you prefer a dairy-free version, use plant-based milk such as almond or oat milk.
- Frothing the milk separately is optional but adds a nice texture and presentation.
- Use fresh spices for the best aromatic chai experience.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Beverages
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
