INDIA’S FAMOUS CHAI!

ABOUT CHAI

Chai literally means tea. But in India, it means tea with milk. Although the word chai in western countries usually implies black tea with spices, milk and sugar, the real chai is made pure–with no spices. The spiced version is called Masala Chai, which translates into Spiced Tea. Spiced or not, there are no doubts that Chai is delicious, soothing and one of the best milk teas in the world...

MOST POPULAR TYPES OF CHAI LIST

Masala Chai: A tea spiced with Indian flavors, and desired greatly on cold mornings. The most common spices used are cardamom, clove, black pepper, cinnamon, ginger and nutmeg.

Ginger Chai:  Ginger chai is a hot favorite, especially during winter. Grated ginger is added to the tea pot while the tea is brewing. This is also considered the elixir for colds because of ginger’s reputation for clearing sinuses. 

Elaichi or Cardamom Chai: Freshly ground or powdered cardamom. It’s sweet from the cardamom and is a refreshing choice of chai. Cinnamon can also add grated or powdered. 

Tulsi Chai:  Tulsi Chai uses one of India’s most sacred herbs – the holy basil. Fresh tulsi leaves are added to the brew and it’s thought to strengthen the immune system and in relieving stress. This can be prepared with or without milk and the ideal time to consume is said to be in the morning.

Butter Tea: It is traditionally made from tea leaves, milk butter, water, and salt. Himalayan nomads are known to drink more than 30 cups a day! Also available with cow butter, this tea comes in tiny cups that will leave you craving for more.

Lemongrass Chai: If you prefer more of a chai, lemongrass adds a slightly bitter note to your tea. If you have a sinus infection, it can also help clear your sinuses. This type of tea goes well post a delicious Indian dinner. 

Turmeric Tea: Turmeric has become the latest hipster trend. If you make tea and add milk, be sure to add some turmeric. Its anti-inflammatory and overall goof for your health. Be sure to use a teaspoon or less in the tea and add some jaggery. You can get some jaggery at Indian grocery store. If you use decaffeinated tea, you can drink it at night before bed.

 

HEALTH BENEFITS FROM INDIAN CHAI

1. Energy boosting
2. Regulating cholesterol
3. Relieving stomach pain and nausea
4.  Heart health
5.  Weight loss properties
6.  Protecting the brain
7. protect the cells and boost the immune system.

 

Generally, the water, milk and tea leaves are boiled together and this mixture is then allowed to brew off the stove for a few minutes and then filtered to make a delicious milk chai. You can sweeten your tea with jaggery, palm sugar or sugar or just have it without sugar.

 

IN CONCLUSION

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Leave a comment below to share your experience in adding Indian chai!