How to make Masala Chai

Why cooks start here

Masala Chai is cooked the way every Indian morning cooks it — salt judged by hand, fat used generously, and the table set for sharing. This is the home version, written down the way a indian family cook actually puts it on the table.

Masala Chai, a staple in Indian households, is the aromatic heartbeat of countless mornings, brewed with care and instinct. Each family has its own cherished version, passed down through generations, with proportions of spices and tea leaves adjusted to personal taste. This recipe mirrors the authenticity of a home kitchen, where the balance of salt, fat, and sweetness is judged by hand, creating a warm and inviting start to the day. The chai should be a harmonious blend of robust black tea, fragrant cardamom, and spicy ginger, all softened by creamy milk. The cinnamon adds a gentle warmth, while the sugar is a personal choice, rounding out the flavors to the drinker’s preference. It's a comfort in a cup, designed to be shared, sipped leisurely, and savored.