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Homemade Chai

Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 17 Jan 2026

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

This authentic homemade chai is a fragrant, warming celebration of traditional Indian flavours. By simmering whole spices like ginger, cloves, and cardamom, you create a deeply aromatic base that far surpasses any shop-bought alternative or instant latte powder. The use of golden brown sugar adds a delicate caramel note, which perfectly complements the robust tannins of the Darjeeling tea and the richness of the whole milk.

Providing a comforting lift on a cold afternoon, this spiced tea is a wonderful addition to your beverage repertoire. It is an ideal drink for sharing with friends, or simply as a soothing ritual after a long day. For a truly traditional experience, serve it piping hot in small glasses or ceramic mugs alongside a few biscuits for dipping.

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Ingredients for Homemade Chai

  • 2-inch piece fresh ginger, cut into thin rounds

  • 2 cinnamon sticks

  • 2 teaspoons black peppercorns

  • 10 whole cloves

  • 6 cardamom pods

  • 1450ml cold water

  • 6 bags of black tea (preferably Darjeeling)

  • 475ml whole milk

  • 120ml (packed) golden brown sugar

How to make Homemade Chai

Combine first 5 ingredients in medium saucepan. Using mallet or back of large spoon, lightly crush or bruise spices. Add 1450ml water; bring to boil over high heat. Reduce heat to medium-low, partially cover pan, and simmer gently 10 minutes. Remove from heat. Add tea bags and steep 5 minutes. Discard tea bags. Add milk and sugar. Bring tea just to simmer over high heat, whisking until sugar dissolves. Strain chai into teapot and serve hot.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 17 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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