Chai Tea
Teas sourced from the fervent fields of India have been enjoyed across the world by tea connoisseurs for hundreds of years. A spiced beverage with a rich flavour, with or without milk, chai tea is a sweet drink that has been enjoyed for centuries. It has cinnamon and cardamom flavours and is based on black teas, giving it a smoky flavour.
What is chai tea?
Chai is a blend of traditional ingredients, with black tea mixed with spices such as ginger, cloves, cardamom and black peppercorns. It’s typically brewed strong and served with milk which is sweetened with sugar and honey.
Where did chai tea originate from?
It’s believed that chai dates back over 5,000 years, when a king in India ordered a healing spiced beverage for its ayurvedic benefits. The ginger and black peppercorns stimulate digestion, while cloves were included to relieve pain and cinnamon used to boost circulation and respiratory function.
What does chai tea taste like?
Because the recipes for chai vary considerably, the taste can change depending on the ingredients used. Chai that has more ginger or peppercorns included will have a more fiery taste, while one with more black tea and vanilla or cinnamon will taste sweeter.
Do you drink chai tea with milk?
Chai is typically served with milk and often has a sweetener added, such as sugar, honey or jaggery – an unrefined cane sugar that’s popular in parts of India.
Does chai tea contain caffeine?
Since chai is based on black tea, it does contain a certain amount of caffeine, but the levels are lower because of the higher amount of milk. It contains around half the caffeine found in a cup of coffee.
How to brew chai tea
Chai can be brewed in various ways, but the most common process involves boiling water, milk and sweetener. Bring the chai to a simmer and steep for 5 minutes if your chai has black tea leaves in or 15 minutes if it’s a purely herbal blend, then strain it into your cup to enjoy with milk and your sweetener of choice.
What are the benefits of chai tea?
Chai is believed to reduce oxidative stress, lower blood sugar and blood pressure, and improve cognitive function.
Why you should trust our chai tea
We make use of the finest ingredients in our chai tea, from rich black teas sourced directly from the growers to flavourful spices, to ensure that you have the most delicious beverage possible.