Chai masala is a fragrant blend of spices used to flavor Indian masala chai (spiced tea). While the exact ingredients and their proportions can vary from region to region and even from family to family, some of the most common ingredients include:
Core Spices:
* Cardamom: Green cardamom is almost always included and provides a sweet, aromatic, and slightly floral note. Black cardamom, with its smoky and bold flavor, is used in some variations.
* Cinnamon: Adds warmth and a sweet, woody flavor. It's often used in the form of sticks or ground powder.
* Cloves: Offer a strong, pungent, and warm flavor.
* Ginger: Typically used in its dried form (ginger powder or sonth) for a warm, slightly spicy kick. Fresh ginger can also be used when brewing the tea.
* Black Pepper: Adds a touch of heat and a subtle peppery note.
Optional Spices (depending on regional and personal preferences):
* Nutmeg: Provides a warm, sweet, and slightly nutty flavor. It's often freshly grated.
* Fennel Seeds (Saunf): Contribute a mild licorice-like sweetness and aroma.
* Star Anise (Chakra Phool): Offers a distinct licorice flavor that complements fennel.
* Mace (Javitri): The outer covering of the nutmeg seed, it has a similar but more delicate flavor than nutmeg.
* Dried Rose Petals: Add a subtle floral aroma.
* Long Pepper (Pippali): A more intense and complex pepper flavor.
* Ajwain (Carom Seeds): Offers a pungent, thyme-like flavor (used in some family recipes).
* Tulsi Seeds: Some variations include these for their potential health benefits.
* Lemongrass: Adds a fresh, citrusy note.
To make Masala Chai, you would typically use:
* Black Tea: Usually a strong variety like Assam.
* Milk: Often full-fat milk for a richer taste.
* Sweetener: Sugar, jaggery, or other sweeteners to taste.
* Water: To brew the tea.
The spices in chai masala not only add a wonderful flavor and aroma to the tea but are also known for various health benefits, such as aiding digestion, boosting immunity, reducing inflammation, and providing antioxidants.
