Ratio & Matter
- 1 cup water (240 ml)
- ½ cup whole milk (120 ml)
- 1 to 1½ teaspoons black tea leaves (Assam tea preferred) or 1 tea bag
- 1–2 teaspoons sugar (adjust to taste)
- 2 green cardamom pods (lightly crushed)
- 1 small cinnamon stick (or ¼ tsp cinnamon powder)
- 2–3 thin slices fresh ginger (optional but recommended)
- 1 clove (optional)
- 1–2 black peppercorns (optional, for slight spice)
Apparatus
- Small saucepan
- Spoon
- Tea strainer
- Cup or mug
- Mortar & pestle (optional, to crush spices)
Learn how to prepare a single serving of chai hot tea at home with simple ingredients, clear steps, and easy kitchen tools.
The Process
Prepare the Spices: Lightly crush cardamom pods and ginger using a mortar & pestle. This helps release maximum flavor.
Boil Water & Spices: Pour 1 cup water into a saucepan. Add crushed cardamom, ginger, cinnamon, clove, and peppercorns. Bring to a boil and let it simmer for about 2–3 minutes so the spices infuse properly.
Add Tea Leaves: Add black tea leaves (or tea bag) into the boiling water. Let it boil for 1 minute. You’ll see the color deepen.
Add Milk: Pour in ½ cup milk. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes. (For stronger chai, let it simmer slightly longer.).
Add Sugar: Add sugar and stir until dissolved.
Strain & Serve: Turn off heat. Strain the chai directly into your cup. Serve hot and enjoy ☕