What Is Masala Chai? Meaning, Ingredients and Taste

Traditional masala chai in a ceramic cup with whole spices including cardamom cinnamon and cloves showing what masala chai looks like

Masala chai is a South Asian spiced tea commonly made with black tea, spices, milk, water and optional sweetener. “Masala” refers to a mixture of spices, while “chai” means tea. The exact recipe is not fixed: one household may emphasize cardamom and ginger, while another uses cinnamon, cloves, pepper, fennel or no milk at all. … Read more

Types of Chai: 15 South Asian Tea Styles Explained

Collection of different chai varieties from South Asia including Karak, Doodh Pati, Kashmiri pink chai, and Kahwa in traditional cups

The types of chai you encounter across South Asia differ in more than their spices. Some emphasize milk, some are served without it, and others are identified by a preparation method or a small serving size. Doodh pati, masala chai, Kashmiri noon chai and Mumbai cutting chai therefore do not describe four perfectly separate recipes: … Read more

Where To Buy Desi Chai in the USA

    Where to Buy Desi Chai in the USA Desi chai, or South Asian spiced tea, is more than just a drink—it’s a daily ritual, a symbol of comfort, and a taste of home. Whether you’re a fan of authentic masala chai, Pakistani doodh pati, or classic Indian-style tea, finding quality desi chai in … Read more