Masala Chai translates
into spiced tea – and that’s exactly what it is. A delicious drink that brings
comfort and an excellent array of spices together in one steaming hot cup. You’re
likely to find the following ingredients in authentic masala chai – cardamom,
cloves, star anise, peppercorns, ginger, cinnamon, and black tea. Peppercorns
and ginger are the star ingredients as they are the spices bringing the heat to
the tea.
If you've ever had a
chai, you may have noticed a warming sensation from the added spices. This
unique experience differentiates masala chai from many other warm drinks. If
you purchased at a coffee shop, it may not be the same as having home-brewed
chai, but it demonstrates the effect of the blend from popular Americanized
versions.
There are a few
occasions in which authentic masala chai is traditionally served, the
first being to welcome guests into a home. It is not uncommon to be offered a
fresh cup of brewed chai upon entering an acquaintance or friend’s home.
The drink is also
commonly served in the afternoon with light snacks, similar to an English
afternoon tea. Most of the snacks for this occasion are on the savory side,
like samosas.
Otherwise, you’ll find
masala chai on the streets of India being served by chai wallahs. These vendors
specifically sell tea. It has become so common to drink this tea in India that
many people drink approximately four cups per day.
Finally, Indians love
this blend because it features the two things that all Indians love – spices
and tea. Whether or not you've gone to India, you have probably heard about
their love for tea. Most Indians are tea drinkers and cannot go for a day
without having the beverage.
India is also popular
for being the hub of spices, the traditional recipes all featuring intricate
combinations of several of them. Therefore, it comes as no surprise that
Indians love masala chai.
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