What is Masala Chai? How chai varies region by region in India and importance of spices in tea?

Masala Chai is a word used for spiced tea in India, it is an ancient medicinal tea that combines, black tea leaves with spices traditionally used in Ayurveda, one of the oldest healing systems in the world. I’ve discussed about the origin of chai in my last chai blog. This article is about how chai varies region by region in India.

Ginger, cinnamon, fennel and clove offers antibacterial, antifungal, anti- nausea effects. Ginger and Cinnamon are great in combating gas, controlling blood sugar and stimulates the circulatory system. All the traditional Indian chai includes, Assam black tea blended with spices to promote calm, peace of mind and to help instil emotional balance.

Chai has followed the Indian diaspora and can be found far and wide, where it’s transformed by local flavours and preferences!

Through our new Masala Chai Box - Stovetop Chai introduces you to four variants of Masala Chai, as brewed in north, east, west and northeast regions of India.Masala Chai Box offers Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Darjeeling Masala Chai. This will remind you the real taste of  Masala Chai from the streets of India.

You can brew Delhi Masala Chai, Mumbai Masala Chai and Kolkata Masala Chaias per below instructions;

Brewing Instructions: Put 1-2 heaped teaspoons in one small teapot. Add water at 100 degrees celsius and brew for 2-3 minutes until desired strength achieved. Add a dash of milk and some sugar if desired.

Stovetop Method: Use a saucepan to warm 1 cup of water and 1 cup of milk for 2 serves of chai, After boiling, add 1 teaspoon per cup of Masala chai blend and brew for 3-5 mins. Add sweetener, as required. We recommend 1 teaspoon of raw sugar/ honey. Bring to a boil and simmer for 15 seconds. Strain & enjoy!

But for the best brew of Darjeeling Masala Chai, place one heaped teaspoon per cup in a teapot. Pour boiling water into the teapot. Infuse for 3-5 minutes or longer for taste. Strain to serve and enjoy. We don’t recommend milk with Darjeeling tea as this tea brews perfectly on its own. While sipping it, take your time to discover the hidden layers of its exquisite leaf :)