Secret To Perfect Masala Chai? A Powder You Can Make At Home | Lifestyle News

News18

For most Indian households, tea isn’t just a beverage—it’s a daily ritual. Be it a refreshing morning start or an evening energy booster, chai is everyone’s favourite. While plain tea is common, adding a hint of spices takes it to another level. The good news? You don’t need expensive store-bought masala powders. You can easily prepare your own tea masala at home, and one batch lasts for nearly 100 cups of chai!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this flavorful masala, gather a few kitchen spices:

20 green cardamoms

20 cloves

1 tbsp black peppercorns

2-inch cinnamon stick

2 tbsp dry ginger powder

1 tbsp fennel seeds

¼ piece of nutmeg

(Optional: star anise and dried tulsi leaves)

Simple Method To Prepare

Lightly roast cardamom, cloves, black pepper, cinnamon, fennel, and nutmeg on a low flame for 1–2 minutes to release their aroma.

Let them cool, then grind into a fine or coarse powder.

Mix in dry ginger powder and tulsi leaves if desired.

Store in an airtight jar in a cool, dry place—it stays fresh for months.

How To Make Masala Chai

When brewing tea, add just ¼–½ teaspoon of this powder along with tea leaves and water. Let it boil for 2–3 minutes so the spices infuse well. Add milk and sugar as per taste, and your perfect masala chai is ready.

Warming spices like ginger and pepper keep you cosy in winter. Cardamom and cinnamon add aroma and enhance taste. Fennel and tulsi aid digestion and boost immunity.

This homemade masala tea powder is not only more flavorful than store-bought versions but also healthier, fresher, and chemical-free. Once you try it, you won’t go back to packaged masala tea again!