How to Make Chai Latte

If you enjoy comforting, aromatic drinks, learning how to make chai latte at home is a wonderful skill to have. A chai latte combines strong black tea with warm spices and steamed milk to create a rich, flavorful beverage. The word “chai” simply means tea in India, where spiced tea has been enjoyed for generations. When blended with milk and lightly sweetened, it becomes the creamy drink many people love ordering in cafés. The good news is that you can recreate this cozy beverage in your own kitchen using simple ingredients and a few easy steps.

1. Ingredients You Will Need

Traditional chai uses whole spices simmered with tea and milk. You can adjust the spice levels to match your preference.

• 2 cups water
  • 2 black tea bags or 2 teaspoons loose black tea
  • 1 cup milk
  • 2 to 3 tablespoons sugar or honey
  • 2 to 3 cardamom pods
  • 1 small cinnamon stick
  • 2 to 3 cloves
  • A small slice of fresh ginger

You may also add a pinch of ground nutmeg or black pepper for extra warmth. Whole spices give a deeper flavor, but ground spices can work if that is what you have available.

2. Boiling the Spices and Tea

Start by pouring the water into a small saucepan and placing it over medium heat. Lightly crush the cardamom pods to release their flavor, then add them to the water along with cinnamon, cloves, and ginger.

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This allows the spices to infuse the water fully.

Next, add the black tea and reduce the heat slightly. Let the tea simmer for another 2 to 3 minutes. Be careful not to overboil, as this can make the tea taste bitter.

3. Adding Milk and Sweetener

Pour in the milk and stir well. Increase the heat slightly and allow the mixture to come close to a boil, but do not let it overflow. Lower the heat and let it simmer for another 2 to 3 minutes to blend the flavors.

Add sugar or honey according to your taste and stir until dissolved. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed. The result should be creamy, slightly sweet, and warmly spiced.

4. Straining and Serving

Turn off the heat and strain the chai latte into mugs using a fine strainer to remove tea leaves and whole spices.

For a frothy finish, you can whisk the chai briefly or use a handheld milk frother before serving. Sprinkle a little cinnamon or nutmeg on top for extra aroma if desired.

Also Read: How to Make Braai Pap