What is real chai? - A look behind the tradition of the popular tea
Chai, a drink that is enjoyed in different varieties all over the world, has long since found its way into many cultures. But what exactly makes "real" chai?
In this article, we take a look at the history, ingredients and preparation of traditional Indian chai - and show why this spiced tea is so special.
What is chai - origin and meaning
The word "chai" comes from Hindi and simply means "tea". In India, however, the term "chai" almost always refers to the traditional masala chai, which consists of a mixture of black tea, spices, milk and sugar. The "real" chai, as it is prepared in India, has a deep cultural meaning and is often enjoyed as part of daily life.
Chai is a drink of community, conviviality and well-being - on the streets it is prepared by the chaiwalas (tea sellers) and served in small glasses while people gather in conversation.
The ingredients for real chai
What makes real chai so special? The blend of high-quality ingredients and spices plays a decisive role in the unique taste of this tea. The typical ingredients of a traditional masala chai are
- Black tea: Assam tea is often used as it has a strong taste and harmonizes well with the spices.
- Spices: The spice blend (masala) can vary, but typically includes ginger, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves and black pepper. These spices give the drink its characteristic spiciness and depth.
- Milk: Fresh cow's milk or plant-based alternatives such as oat or almond drink are used to give the chai a creamy texture.
- Sugar or honey: Sweetness is an essential ingredient in traditional chai. The amount of sugar can be adjusted according to preference.
How is chai prepared?
The preparation of traditional chai is an important part of the experience. The tea is not simply poured over with hot water, but boils together with the spices and milk, resulting in a more intense flavor. The process usually involves the following steps:
1. boiling the tea with water and spices
First, the tea is boiled in water with the ground spices. The mixture is boiled vigorously to extract the full flavor from the ingredients.
2. adding the milk
Once the spice mixture is well infused, the milk is added. The tea continues to boil until it has reached a pleasant, creamy consistency.
3. seasoning with sugar
Finally, the chai is sweetened with sugar or honey, depending on your preference. Some prefer it less sweet, others add a generous amount of sugar.
Why is chai so special?
The combination of warming spices, strong tea and sweet milk is not only appealing in taste, but also has health benefits. Many of the spices used, such as ginger, cardamom and cinnamon, are known for their anti-inflammatory and digestive properties.
Chai also has a deep-rooted social significance in India. It is not just a drink, but a symbolic moment of bonding, conversation and enjoyment. It is a drink that brings people together - be it during a break on the street or in a cozy café.
Contents: 0.398 kg (€32.54* / 1 kg)
Contents: 0.398 kg (€32.54* / 1 kg)
Contents: 0.337 kg (€38.43* / 1 kg)
Contents: 0.337 kg (€38.43* / 1 kg)
Contents: 0.398 kg (€32.54* / 1 kg)
Contents: 0.398 kg (€32.54* / 1 kg)
Contents: 0.456 kg (€28.40* / 1 kg)
Contents: 0.398 kg (€32.54* / 1 kg)
Contents: 0.398 kg (€32.54* / 1 kg)
Contents: 0.398 kg (€32.54* / 1 kg)
