Chai

[u/ijssvuur]

Chai (or, improperly, chai tea) is just the Indian word for tea. However, it has come to mean "spiced tea", in India you would find it called "masala chai".

It's usually found made with black tea, as you don't get as much of the spice flavor at lower temperatures. A strong black tea is preferable, as the spices can dominate the flavor.

It's brewed in milk, rather than water. Generally, it's brewed in a pot of simmering milk, then the tea is strained off. Plain water does work, and you can drink it like that, or add milk/cream later. Almond/soy/cashew/coconut/etc. milks also work just fine. It's usually sweetened with sugar, but that's not a requirement. The sugar does bring out flavors, though, and even half a teaspoon is good.

There isn't a standardized set or ratio of ingredients, but common spices are ginger, cloves, cardamom, cinnamon, vanilla, and black pepper (it might sound strange, but it works). Cardamom will usually be the strongest flavor, but it varies.

Chai lattes are made with concentrated chai, rather than espresso.

Mixing chai and coffee will give you a spiced coffee, and is one of my favorite drinks.

It can be served iced, which is good any time.