I wasn’t really a tea person growing up. Coffee was more my thing — especially strong filter coffee from back home. But then I married a chai lover. He makes tea like it’s a daily ritual, not just a quick fix. Slowly, I started sipping from his cup… and somewhere along the way, that habit became mine too. These days, if I don’t have my morning tea, it just feels like something’s missing.
In our families, tea is always around. At my mum’s place, and at my in-laws’, there’s usually a big batch made and poured into a Thermos, ready for anyone who walks in. Whether it’s a sleepy morning or a random mid-afternoon craving, there’s always someone asking, “Chaaya undo?” and someone else pouring it out before you even finish the question.
This recipe is how we like it at home — no fancy spices, just cardamom and ginger, crushed the old way in a mortar and pestle. It’s strong, milky, and perfectly warming. The tea leaves make all the difference, so go for something bold and full-bodied. I’ll share a few favourites below.
If you’re someone who likes your tea simple but full of flavour, this one’s for you.
Best Tea Leaves for Kerala-Style Chai:
- Dust tea (loose tea powder): Popular in Kerala homes and tea shops for a reason — it brews fast and strong.
- Assam tea leaves: Gives that bold, malty flavour — great for milk-based chai.
- Avoid delicate or floral teas for this kind of chai — you want depth and strength, not subtlety.
Chai
A fragrant, spiced milk tea that’s strong, warming, and deeply comforting — perfect for everyday sipping.
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cup water
- 1 cup full-fat mil
- 2 tsp black tea leaves (preferably Assam or dust tea)
- 2 tsp sugar (adjust to taste)
- 2 green cardamom pods
- A small piece of fresh ginger (about ½ inch)
Instructions
- Using a mortar and pestle, gently crush the cardamom pods and ginger to release their falvour.
- In a saucepan, combine the water with the crushed cardamom and ginger. Bring to a boil.
- Add tea leaves and let it simmer for 2 minutes to infuse.
- Pour in the milk and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Add sugar and stir well. (Optional)
- Simmer for 3–5 minutes on low heat until the tea reaches a rich golden-brown color.
- Strain into cups and serve hot.
Nutrition Information:
Serving Size: 1 cupAmount Per Serving: Calories: 90 kCalTotal Fat: 3.5 ggCarbohydrates: 12 ggProtein: 3 gg
Try this chai and let us know
If this cup of chai warms your heart like it does mine, share it with someone you love. Don’t forget to drop a comment or tag me on Instagram @platefullofyumm — I’d love to see your version in a mug!