The word 'chai' itself is enough to turn a frown upside down, gather friends together and help you feel warm and cozy on a rainy day. Add to it a few aromatic spices and you've got yourself a hug in a mug. So what exactly makes this drink so special? Let's take a look.
Masala Chai is a flavoured tea that is made by brewing black tea with aromatic spices and herbs. This includes ginger, cloves, cinnamon, black pepper, bay leaves, and cardamom. The ingredients will vary from household to household or whichever region of the country you happen to be in. Served with milk, this golden wonder tea is consumed by millions each day and is adored especially in the south of India. This tea is HOT, as it is not only served steaming, but it also leaves a nice pungent sensation at the back of your throat.
By having black tea as the base tea, Masala Chai has many health benefits. Black tea is rich in antioxidants and can improve oral health and hygiene. Its anti-inflammatory properties can help control bad cholesterol and it's also rich in vitamin C and vitamin E. Black teas from Darjeeling are known to promote health and wellness, while Black tea from Assam is said to increase mental alertness.
Besides black tea, Masala Chai is also boosted by the various health benefits of its spices. Ginger remedies stomach ailments, nausea and loss of appetite. Cloves have antiseptic qualities, treat toothache and reduce inflammation. Cinnamon fights diabetes, protects against viruses and is known to lower risk of cancer. Black pepper improves cognitive function and aids in weight loss. Bay leaves boost the immune system, ease joint pain and soothe body ache, while Cardamom is said to lower cholesterol, improve blood circulation and cure dental diseases.
The beauty of Masala Chai is that wherever you happen to be, there is always a chai wallah or tea vendor serving this popular tea close by. Furthermore, it pairs well with all our favourite spicy Indian snacks like samosas and pakodas. It can also be enjoyed simply with a rusk or khari biscuit. We have our very own version of the famous ‘Masala Chai’ which has been created by our tea sommelier. To order it from Tea Trunk click here.
