On September 21, Indians will celebrate National Masala Chai Day. There’s no better time to learn more about one of the most beloved and appreciated spiced teas in the world!
Masala Chai is one of the most popular ways of preparing aromatic Indian chai tea. There is no single precise method of brewing this infusion. In India, each family cultivates the creation of their own recipes, which are passed down from generation to generation. Despite this, certain basic ingredients appear in each of them: strong black tea, sugar or honey, milk and spices such as cardamom, pepper, ginger, cloves and cinnamon.
Are you a chai lover? Or are you just starting to discover the aromatic nature of this tea? No matter which group you belong to, this guide will take you through the origins of chai, its evolution, cultural significance and methods of preparing the spicy essence!
The Origin and History of Masala Chai
Masala Chai is steeped in rich tradition. The word “chai” simply means tea, while “masala” refers to the spice blend.
The history of the tea begins thousands of years ago, when it was known as an Ayurvedic remedy. According to legend, the first version of chai was created over 5,000 years ago in the royal courts of India as a spicy medicinal drink, often consumed without tea leaves. It was not until the British colonial period in the 19th century that tea leaves began to be added to the drink, cementing its status in Indian culture.
The British East India Company was actively working to establish tea plantations in India. As a result, thanks to these events, black tea was combined with Indian spices and milk, and thus the recipe that we know today was created. Over time, chai was no longer used exclusively as a medicine and drinking spiced tea was introduced into the daily routine.
Masala Chai Drinking Culture
In India, chai is more than just a drink. Preparing the ingredients, brewing the tea , and enjoying its flavor is treated as a kind of ritual that allows you to slow down and relax.
The tradition of chai tea also transcends social and economic boundaries. It is a glue that not only brings people together but also holds a significant place in the culture of Indian society. Morning routines, family meetings or even business meetings often begin with the phrase: "Let's have some chai."
It is also worth paying attention to the “chaiwallah” – street tea vendors – who are very common on the streets of India. Small stalls serving Masala Chai in clay pots are a hub for conversation and gathering . They are places where the hustle and bustle of everyday life slows down and calms down.
Regional Varieties of Masala Chai
Masala Chai tea can be found in many different forms throughout India. Each region has its own version of the traditional recipe, which is based primarily on local ingredients and customs.
Mumbai
In this city, cutting chai is definitely king. It is a stronger version of the classic Masala Chai. Its flavor and aroma are so pronounced that the tea is served either in small vessels or glasses filled only halfway. Usually , fewer spices and more tea leaves are added to it.
Cashmere
The Kashmiri version is known as "noon chai" or "pink chai". It is made using green tea leaves, baking soda and salt instead of sugar, which gives it a distinctly salty and nutty flavor , and a mix of spices such as cinnamon, anise and cloves. When these ingredients are combined with milk, a beautiful pink infusion is created.
Rajasthan
In this northwestern Indian state , chai with more milk has gained popularity. Sometimes, a little butter is added to the tea, which gives the spicy essence a velvety, creamy texture.
As we mentioned earlier, there is no single, precise method for preparing Masala Chai. In India alone, you can experience different versions of this infusion. For this reason , we have the opportunity to find that one, perfect version of chai. The cross-section of them is very diverse - from those with a stronger profile with a clearly noticeable sharpness of spices to those with more milk, which softens the taste of chai and makes the essence take on a smooth, creamy consistency.
Contemporary Chai Culture
It's safe to say that the Masala Chai phenomenon has crossed the borders of India. Today , coffee shops all over the world offer their own versions of the spiced tea - often much stronger than the original, basic recipe. In many Western countries, the Chai latte, a brew that is a mixture of black tea, spices and milk foam sprinkled with a pinch of cinnamon, has gained huge popularity .
Despite the myriad of variations and varieties of chai, the experience of drinking a traditional, spicy tea on a crowded Indian street on a rainy afternoon remains unmatched.
Masala Chai from the Oriental collection
For a convenient and authentic experience of the full flavor and aroma of Indian chai, Basilur Masala Chai is the perfect choice. With this blend, you will save time because we have done the choosing, measuring and mixing for you! Basilur Masala Chai is composed of high-quality Ceylon black tea leaves and spices - cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg and pepper.
A cup of aromatic Masala Chai composition by Basilur is synonymous with high quality!
Masala Chai is more than just a spiced tea - it is a cultural experience that speaks to centuries of tradition, warmth and unity. On National Masala Chai Day, take a moment to learn more about this tea and then try brewing your own aromatic, warming infusion.
