Cold Brew Chai is a modern twist on the classic Indian chai, offering a refreshing way to enjoy spiced tea during warmer months. This chilled version retains the aromatic spices of traditional chai while adding a smooth, less bitter flavor through the cold brewing process. It’s perfect for tea lovers looking for a cool and flavorful beverage.
Why Cold Brew Chai?
Cold brewing tea extracts a smoother, less astringent flavor compared to hot brewing. It also preserves the subtle notes of the spices, resulting in a perfectly balanced drink. Cold brew chai is easy to make, customizable, and a refreshing option for tea enthusiasts, especially on a hot day.
Ingredients for Cold Brew Chai
- Black Tea (Loose Leaf or Tea Bags): 2 tbsp or 2 tea bags
- Water: 4 cups (cold or room temperature)
- Milk (Dairy or Plant-Based): 1 cup (optional)
- Sweetener (Sugar, Honey, or Maple Syrup): To taste
- Whole Spices:
- Cinnamon Stick: 1
- Green Cardamom Pods: 4 (lightly crushed)
- Cloves: 3
- Star Anise: 1 (optional)
- Ginger: 1-inch piece (sliced)
- Ice Cubes: For serving
Step-by-Step Recipe for Cold Brew Chai
Step 1: Prepare the Tea Base
- In a large jar or pitcher, combine black tea, water, and whole spices (cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, star anise, and ginger).
- Stir well and cover the jar with a lid or plastic wrap.
Step 2: Cold Brew
- Place the jar in the refrigerator and let the tea steep for 12-16 hours. This slow brewing process extracts a rich and smooth flavor from the tea and spices.
Step 3: Strain and Sweeten
- After brewing, strain the tea into a clean pitcher to remove the spices and tea leaves.
- Add your preferred sweetener and stir until dissolved.
Step 4: Add Milk (Optional)
- If desired, stir in milk (dairy or plant-based) for a creamy texture. Adjust the quantity to your preference.
Step 5: Serve
- Fill a glass with ice cubes and pour the cold brew chai over the ice.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or a star anise for a decorative touch.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy cold brew chai as a refreshing afternoon pick-me-up or a unique iced tea option at gatherings.
- Pair it with light snacks like biscuits, cookies, or savory samosas for a delightful tea-time treat.
- Serve it with a splash of vanilla or almond extract for added flavor.
Tips for Perfect Cold Brew Chai
- Quality Tea: Use high-quality black tea for the best flavor.
- Adjust Spices: Tailor the spice mix to suit your taste. Add more ginger for a spicier kick or omit cloves for a milder flavor.
- Sweeten Later: Add sweetener after brewing to control the sweetness level.
- Make Ahead: Cold brew chai can be refrigerated for up to 3 days, making it a convenient option for busy days.
Nutritional Value (Per Serving)
- Calories: 50 (without milk or sweetener)
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fats: 0g
- Protein: 0g
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Conclusion
Cold Brew Chai is a refreshing take on traditional chai, blending aromatic spices with smooth, chilled tea. This easy-to-make beverage is perfect for warm days and can be customized with your favorite milk and sweetener. Try this recipe today and enjoy the delightful flavors of chai in a cool and invigorating form!
Cold Brew Chai
Equipment
- Large jar or pitcher
- Strainer
- Glasses for serving
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp black tea or 2 tea bags
- 4 cups water
- 1 cup milk optional
- Sweetener to taste
- Whole spices: 1 cinnamon stick 4 cardamom pods, 3 cloves, 1 star anise (optional), 1-inch ginger (sliced)
- Ice cubes for serving
Instructions
- Combine tea, water, and spices in a jar; refrigerate for 12-16 hours.
- Strain and sweeten to taste.
- Add milk if desired, and serve over ice.
Notes
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Add a splash of flavored syrup like vanilla or hazelnut for a unique twist.
- Adjust brewing time to make the tea stronger or milder.
