Pistachio Free Masala Chai

Total time20 min

Prep time5 min

Cook time15 min

4.6

(15)

Few drinks are as deeply warming as a proper pot of masala chai, and this version delivers that perfect balance of spice, sweetness, and creamy richness. Whole spices like cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and black pepper simmer together first, coaxing out layers of fragrance before the tea even hits the pot — it's a small step that makes a huge difference. Fresh ginger adds a gentle heat that ties everything together, and the whole milk gives the finished cup that silky, café-style body you just can't fake with a powder or a teabag dunked in hot water. The technique of bringing the milk and tea to a gentle boil together is what transforms this from a simple brew into something genuinely luxurious. Since every ingredient here is a straightforward whole spice, tea, or pantry staple, there's nothing hidden to worry about — just clean, honest flavor from start to finish. Strain it into your favorite mug, adjust the sugar to your taste, and settle in.

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Ingredients

4 servings

8 green cardamom pods, lightly crushed
1 cinnamon stick (about 3 inches)
4 whole cloves
6 black peppercorns
1 inch fresh ginger, thinly sliced
1 star anise (optional)
2 cups water
3 tsp loose-leaf black tea or 3 black tea bags (such as assam or darjeeling)
2 cups whole milk
2–3 tbsp sugar, or to taste

Instructions

1
Combine the cardamom pods, cinnamon stick, cloves, peppercorns, ginger, and star anise (if using) in a medium saucepan with the water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes, until the water is fragrant and lightly tinted.
2
Add the black tea and simmer for 2 minutes, until the liquid is a deep amber-brown.

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