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Make rich, creamy Irani Chai at home in just 4 minutes! This Hyderabadi-style tea is full of flavour and perfect to serve in a ‘kulhar’ for an authentic touch.
It is not difficult to make Irani chai at home; with the right method, you can recreate this Hyderabadi classic in just a few minutes. (AI Generated)
If you’re a true tea lover, you’ve likely heard of Irani Chai. This distinctive tea, known for its rich flavour and creamy texture, has made its mark from the bustling streets of Hyderabad to cosy cafés across the country.
What sets Irani Chai apart is its thick full-cream milk, gentle sweetness, and the layer of malai (cream) on top. Many believe it’s difficult to make at home, but with the right method, you can recreate this Hyderabadi classic in just a few minutes.
Ingredients For Irani Chai
- Full cream milk – 2 cups
- Water – 1 cup
- Tea leaves – 2 tablespoons
- Sugar – 2 to 3 tablespoons (adjust to taste)
- Cardamom – 2 pods, crushed
- Saffron strands – 4 to 5 (optional)
- Fresh cream – for serving on top
Step-By-Step Recipe
- Boil the Tea Leaves: Start by adding one cup of water to a saucepan. Add two tablespoons of tea leaves and bring it to a boil for about a minute. Lower the heat and let it simmer until the water turns a rich, dark colour.
- Prepare the Milk: In a separate pan, pour in the two cups of full cream milk and heat it gently on a low flame. You can add the crushed cardamom and saffron at this stage to infuse the milk with a lovely aroma and taste.
- Combine the Tea and Milk: Once the milk comes to a gentle boil (about 2 – 3 minutes), gradually mix it into the tea concentrate. Let the mixture simmer together on a low flame for another 3 minutes to bring out the full-bodied flavour and thickness typical of Irani Chai.
- Add Sugar and Simmer: Now, add sugar to taste. Continue to simmer for another 2 minutes. Remember, Irani Chai should be slightly thick and creamy, so don’t rush this step.
How To Serve Irani Chai?
Pour the tea into cups and top it with a spoonful of fresh cream. For an authentic experience, serve it in a kulhar (clay cup) or earthenware. It not only looks traditional but also enhances the flavour beautifully.
Special Tips For Authentic Flavour
- Always use full cream milk for the best texture and richness.
- Saffron is optional, but it adds a wonderful golden hue and aroma.
- Don’t skip the malai on top; it’s what makes Irani Chai truly indulgent.
So there you have it, authentic Hyderabadi Irani Chai that’s creamy, aromatic, and full of flavour. Try making it at home once, and you might never feel the need to visit a café again!
