A Brief History of Chai in India
Masala chai, or spiced tea, is a staple in Indian culture, enjoyed by millions each day. The origins of chai date back thousands of years, to the ancient Ayurvedic tradition, where spiced beverages were used for their therapeutic benefits. When the British colonised India in the 19th century, they introduced the practice of tea drinking especially with milk, cultivating large tea plantations across the country. It wasn't long before Indians made this practice their own by infusing tea with traditional spices such as ginger, cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, and pepper, creating the iconic masala chai.
Chai is more than just a beverage; it’s a ritual and an integral part of daily life in India. It’s offered as a gesture of hospitality and enjoyed at any time of day, often served to guests, sipped at roadside stalls, or brewed at home. Its warming spices and aromatic flavours make it a comforting drink that has become a favourite around the world.
The Benefits of Tea
The health benefits of tea are well-documented. Tea leaves, especially those used in black tea, are rich in antioxidants such as polyphenols, which help fight inflammation, improve heart health, and may reduce the risk of certain cancers. The spices in masala chai also bring their own health benefits. For instance, ginger has anti-inflammatory properties, aids digestion, and can help alleviate nausea. Cardamom is known for its digestive and detoxifying benefits, while cinnamon may help regulate blood sugar levels.
Why a Plant-Based Chai?
While traditional chai is often made with dairy milk and sugar, adding these can detract from some of the tea's health benefits. Dairy milk contains saturated fats that may contribute to cardiovascular issues, and added sugar can spike blood glucose levels for example. For those who are lactose intolerant (70% of the world’s population are lactose intolerant), dairy can also cause digestive discomfort. In contrast, plant-based milks like oat, almond, or soy milk offer a lactose-free, lower-fat alternative that still provides a creamy texture without compromising on taste. By opting for a plant-based version, you can enjoy a delicious cup of masala chai that is better for your health.
Plant-Based Masala Chai Recipe
This recipe serves one person. Use the same tea mug you’ll be drinking from to measure the ingredients.
Ingredients (Per Cup)
1/4 cup water
1 teaspoon loose black tea leaves (for a more authentic taste) or 1 teabag
1/2 teaspoon chai masala (available at Indian grocery stores)
1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
A pinch of cardamom powder (optional)
3/4 cup plant-based milk (oat milk works best, but any will do)
Instructions
Prepare the Base
In a small saucepan, add the water, tea leaves, chai masala, grated ginger, and optional cardamom powder.
Bring the mixture to a boil and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes. This will allow the flavors from the spices to infuse into the water.
Add Plant-Based Milk
Pour in the plant-based milk and stir well.
Cook the mixture on the stove for about 10 minutes, or until it turns a rich, dark brown. You can speed up the process by using high heat but watch closely to avoid overboiling. If the tea starts rising to the top, lower the heat and repeat this a couple of times until the chai is done.
Serve
Strain the tea into your mug and enjoy it hot. You can sweeten it with a natural sweetener like maple syrup or stevia, but this is optional.
Tips for Perfect Masala Chai
Control the Heat: Keeping the tea on low heat after adding the milk ensures a deep infusion of flavours without risking a boil-over.
Spice Variation: Feel free to experiment with other spices like cloves, cinnamon, or even a touch of black pepper for extra warmth.
Quality of Tea Leaves: Loose tea leaves provide a more authentic taste than tea bags, as they release more flavour and antioxidants.
Conclusion
Masala chai is more than just a comforting drink; it's a part of India's cultural heritage with numerous health benefits. Making it plant-based ensures that you get to enjoy all the rich, spiced flavours without the potential downsides of dairy and refined sugar. Whether you're looking to warm up on a cold day, soothe your digestion, or just savour a delicious, aromatic cup of tea, this plant-based masala chai is the perfect choice.
References
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