Chai is everywhere these days. Cafés in New York, Los Angeles, and beyond are serving spiced chai lattes, and suddenly, everyone wants a sip of that aromatic magic. But with popularity came myths - and gossip. People started saying chai is “just tea with milk,” “too complicated to make at home,” or “only for winter.”

Let’s be honest: some of these myths are downright funny. And some might have kept you from enjoying chai the way it’s meant to be - rich, comforting, and endlessly customizable. So here’s the story.

Myth 1: Chai is just tea with milk

Many people think chai is simply strong tea with milk added. But chai is so much more than that. It’s a carefully crafted blend of tea leaves, aromatic spices, milk, and sweetener, each playing a vital role to create a perfectly balanced and comforting flavor.

Usually, robust black tea like Assam forms the base, offering body and depth. But the real magic lies in the spices. Cardamom lends a floral sweetness, ginger adds a warming zing, cinnamon brings a soothing aroma, cloves contribute subtle heat, and sometimes black pepper or fennel seeds add complexity. Together, these spices transform plain tea into the rich, inviting cup we know as chai.

Milk softens the spices and tea, giving chai its creamy, velvety texture. Sweeteners, whether sugar, jaggery, or honey, add just the right touch of sweetness to round off the flavor.

So, calling chai “just tea with milk” misses the intricate blend that makes it so uniquely satisfying and soul-warming.

Myth 2: Chai is unhealthy because of sugar

Sugar often gets a bad reputation in today’s health-focused world, and many assume chai is unhealthy simply because it’s sweetened. But the amount and type of sweetener used in chai is entirely your choice.

While many enjoy their chai moderately sweetened, plenty prefer natural sweeteners like honey or jaggery, which add flavor and some mild nutrients. And there are those who drink chai without any sweetener, appreciating the natural warmth and complexity of the spices alone.

What’s more, many of the spices in chai have health benefits. Ginger aids digestion and fights inflammation. Cardamom is believed to support metabolism and freshen breath. Cinnamon may help balance blood sugar levels. Cloves offer antioxidants, and black pepper can improve nutrient absorption.

Chai can be as healthy or indulgent as you want. The key is moderation and personal preference. Never let the myth that “chai equals sugar overload” stop you from enjoying this comforting, aromatic drink.

Myth 3: The longer you boil chai, the better it tastes

This is one of the most common chai brewing myths. Many think that boiling chai for a long time extracts more flavor, but over-boiling tea and spices can actually cause bitterness and a harsh taste.

The secret to great chai is gentle simmering, not a rolling boil. Simmering lets the tea leaves release their flavors slowly, while the spices infuse the water delicately without becoming overpowering or bitter.

It’s all about balance. Too short a brew results in weak chai; too long makes it sharp and unpleasant.

A typical preparation involves boiling water with spices, then lowering the heat to simmer for a few minutes. After adding tea leaves, simmer gently for 3 to 5 minutes before adding milk and sweetener. This method ensures a smooth, rich, and flavorful cup every time.

Myth 4: Authentic chai only comes from India

When you think chai, India naturally comes to mind. Masala Chai has deep roots in Indian culture, from street stalls to home kitchens. But chai culture is now global, enjoyed in cafés from London to New York, Tokyo to Toronto, each adding their own local spin.

Authenticity isn’t defined solely by geography. It’s about using quality tea, fresh spices, and careful preparation.

Whether you brew chai in India or your own kitchen anywhere in the world, fresh ingredients and a thoughtful blend bring the authentic chai experience. The heart of chai lies in the recipe and care, not just the place it originates.

Myth 5: Chai is hard to make

This myth discourages many from trying chai at home, thinking it’s complicated or time-consuming. But chai is surprisingly simple and approachable.

You don’t need fancy equipment or rare spices. Here’s an easy method:

• Bring water to a boil and add spices like cardamom pods, ginger slices, cinnamon stick, and cloves.

• Let it simmer gently for a few minutes to release the flavors.

• Add tea leaves and simmer for 3 to 5 more minutes.

• Add milk and sweeten to taste.

• Bring it just to a boil again, then strain and serve.

If time is tight or you’re new to chai-making, ready-made chai blends combine tea and spices, making it easy to brew delicious chai in minutes.

So don’t be intimidated. Making chai at home is within everyone’s reach and well worth the effort.

Myth 6: Chai is high in caffeine

Yes, it has caffeine - but much less than coffee. That means gentle energy, no jitters. Perfect for a morning boost or a mid-afternoon pick-me-up.

The True Story

Here’s the thing - chai isn’t complicated, it isn’t intimidating, and it isn’t just a trend. It’s a story in a cup, one that Tea India brings to Americans with love. Want to experiment with spices? Go ahead. Want a quick chai latte? Done. Want to stick to classic masala chai? Perfect. The right tea, the right blend, and your hands - yes, just your hands - are all you need.

AtTea India, we’ve seen the myths grow alongside chai’s global popularity. People wonder if it’s too complicated, too sweet, too spicy - or even if it can truly be authentic outside India. Our mission is simple: to bust every myth and bring the joy of real, premium Indian chai to everyone.

With over 70 years of tea expertise, a team of skilled tasters, and sourcing from the finest estates in Assam, we ensure every leaf, every spice, and every cup meets the highest standards. Whether you’re brewing aclassic masala chaiat home, trying aninstant chai latte, or experimenting with your own recipe, Tea India makes it easy to enjoy authentic flavor - without the confusion or guesswork.

Because everyone deserves the perfect cup of chai. And every myth? Consider it busted.