Tips for Making Chai: Whether it is your morning cup or one to relieve evening fatigue, getting the taste of chai right is crucial. People have their own unique ways of brewing it. Some boil tea leaves and spices in water first before adding milk, while others prefer heating the milk and water together.

But which method is better? The truth is, the taste of chai depends not only on the quality of the tea leaves or milk but also significantly on the brewing technique.

What happens when you add water first?
Most people heat the water first and then add the tea leaves. One reason for this is that tea leaves release their color and flavor effectively in hot water. Natural compounds in the leaves—such as polyphenols and tannins—dissolve in hot water, enhancing the tea's color and flavor profile. Boiling the leaves thoroughly in water first can result in a stronger taste. Adding milk afterwards balances the flavor while preserving the aroma of the tea leaves.

What changes if you add milk first?
Some people heat the milk first and then add water and tea leaves. This method can make the chai feel creamier and milkier. However, adding tea leaves directly to milk can alter the color and taste; the fat and protein in the milk interact with certain compounds in the tea, affecting the flavor. Consequently, many tea makers prefer boiling the leaves in water first.

What is the right method for Masala Chai?
If you are making Masala Chai with ingredients like ginger, cardamom, cloves, or cinnamon, it is considered best to boil the spices in water first. This allows the spices to fully infuse their flavor into the water. Adding milk and tea leaves subsequently imparts a wonderful aroma to the chai.

Is it right to boil chai for a long time?
Many people boil chai for an extended period to achieve a darker color. However, boiling the tea for too long can make it taste bitter. This is likely due to an increase in the tannin content released from the tea leaves. Therefore, one should avoid boiling the tea longer than necessary.

Keep these points in mind for the perfect cup of tea:
Brewing a good cup of tea requires the right balance of tea leaves, milk, and water. Factors such as water quality, the fat content of the milk, and the quality of the tea leaves also influence the taste. Generally, a recommended method is to first heat the water, add the tea leaves and spices, and then pour in the milk. This approach can result in a more balanced flavor and a richer aroma.

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