Introduction
Chai is not just a drink—it’s an experience! 🌍 From the spiced warmth of Indian masala chai to the sweet and creamy Thai iced tea, different cultures have their own unique takes on this beloved beverage.
In this article, we’ll explore the best chai recipes from around the world, so you can try new flavors and bring the world of chai into your kitchen.
1. Indian Masala Chai (Spiced Milk Tea)
Origin: India 🇮🇳
Masala chai is one of the most popular and flavorful versions of chai. Made with black tea, milk, and aromatic spices, it’s a perfect balance of warmth and sweetness.
Ingredients:
✅ 2 cups water
✅ 1 cup milk
✅ 2 teaspoons black tea leaves
✅ 1-inch ginger (grated)
✅ 2 cardamom pods (crushed)
✅ 1 cinnamon stick
✅ 2 cloves
✅ 1 teaspoon sugar or honey (optional)
Instructions:
1️⃣ Boil water with spices for 2 minutes.
2️⃣ Add black tea leaves and simmer for another 2 minutes.
3️⃣ Pour in milk and bring to a gentle boil.
4️⃣ Strain and serve hot!
Why You’ll Love It: Masala chai is warming, rich, and packed with antioxidants.
2. Thai Iced Tea
Origin: Thailand 🇹🇭
This sweet and creamy chai version is a popular street drink in Thailand. It has a unique orange color and is served over ice.
Ingredients:
✅ 2 cups water
✅ 2 black tea bags or 2 teaspoons Thai tea mix
✅ 2 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk
✅ 1 tablespoon evaporated milk
✅ 1 tablespoon sugar
✅ Ice cubes
Instructions:
1️⃣ Brew strong black tea in hot water for 5 minutes.
2️⃣ Strain and let it cool.
3️⃣ Add sweetened condensed milk and sugar, stirring well.
4️⃣ Pour over ice and top with evaporated milk.
Why You’ll Love It: Thai iced tea is refreshing, sweet, and perfect for summer!
3. Karak Chai (Middle Eastern Spiced Tea)
Origin: UAE, Qatar, Bahrain 🇦🇪 🇶🇦 🇧🇭
Karak chai is strong, creamy, and slightly spiced, popular in the Gulf region. It’s often enjoyed in small tea stalls (karak shops).
Ingredients:
✅ 2 cups water
✅ 1 cup milk
✅ 2 teaspoons black tea leaves
✅ 1 cardamom pod (crushed)
✅ 1 cinnamon stick
✅ 1 teaspoon sugar
✅ A pinch of saffron (optional)
Instructions:
1️⃣ Boil water and spices for 3 minutes.
2️⃣ Add black tea leaves and simmer for another 2 minutes.
3️⃣ Pour in milk and bring to a boil.
4️⃣ Strain and serve hot.
Why You’ll Love It: Karak chai is creamy, comforting, and rich in flavor.
4. Kashmiri Pink Chai (Noon Chai)
Origin: Kashmir, Pakistan 🇵🇰 🇮🇳
This beautiful pink chai is made with special tea leaves and baking soda, giving it a distinct rosy color. It has a mild, creamy flavor and is often garnished with crushed nuts.
Ingredients:
✅ 2 cups water
✅ 1 teaspoon Kashmiri tea leaves (Gulabi chai)
✅ 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
✅ 1/2 cup milk
✅ 1 teaspoon sugar
✅ Crushed almonds and pistachios for garnish
Instructions:
1️⃣ Boil water and tea leaves for 10 minutes.
2️⃣ Add baking soda and stir vigorously (this creates the pink color).
3️⃣ Pour in milk and sugar, then simmer for 5 minutes.
4️⃣ Garnish with crushed nuts and serve warm.
Why You’ll Love It: This chai is visually stunning and has a rich, nutty taste.
5. South African Rooibos Chai
Origin: South Africa 🇿🇦
This caffeine-free chai is made with rooibos tea, a naturally sweet and earthy herbal tea. It’s perfect for evening relaxation.
Ingredients:
✅ 2 cups water
✅ 1 rooibos tea bag or 1 teaspoon loose rooibos tea
✅ 1 cinnamon stick
✅ 2 cloves
✅ 1 teaspoon honey
✅ 1/2 cup milk
Instructions:
1️⃣ Boil water and spices for 5 minutes.
2️⃣ Add rooibos tea and steep for another 5 minutes.
3️⃣ Pour in milk and honey, then stir well.
4️⃣ Strain and enjoy!
Why You’ll Love It: Rooibos chai is naturally sweet and caffeine-free, perfect for a relaxing evening drink.
Which Chai Recipe Will You Try First?
Each chai recipe from around the world has its own unique flavors and traditions. Whether you love spicy masala chai, refreshing Thai iced tea, or creamy Karak chai, there’s a chai for every mood!