First Time Making Chai Tea? Here’s the Easiest, Most Detailed Recipe to Start With

If you’ve never made chai before, it can feel a little intimidating.

You might be thinking:

• “What if I mess up the spices?”

• “How much tea is too much?”

• “Do I need special ingredients or tools?”

The good news? We have a solution.

This guide is written for you - the first-time chai maker who wants to get it right without guessing. No fancy equipment. No complicated spice blends. Just a simple, step-by-step recipe that walks you through everything - from the ingredients to the final sip.

What You’ll Need (With Exact Quantities)

This recipe makes1 large mug or2 small cups of chai.

Basic Ingredients:

• 1 cup water (240 ml)

• 1 cup milk (240 ml) – whole milk is traditional, but oat, almond, or soy milk work too

• 1 tablespoon Tea India CTC loose black tea – Assam tea is ideal, but any strong black tea will do

• 1 to 2 teaspoons sugar – start with 1 tsp and adjust to taste

• 1 small slice of fresh ginger – about the size of your thumbnail

• 1 pinch of ground cardamom – or 1 cracked green cardamom pod (optional)

No loose tea? Use 1 regular black tea bag instead.

No fresh ginger? Use a pinch of ground ginger - about ⅛ teaspoon.

Step-by-Step Instructions (With Tips Along the Way)

Step 1: Combine Water and Milk in a Pot

Use a small saucepan. Pour in1 cup of water and1 cup of milk.

Why both?

Water helps extract the tea and spices. Milk adds creaminess and body.

Step 2: Add Tea, Sugar, and Spices

Add the following directly into the pot:

• 1 tbsp Tea India loose black tea (or 1 tea bag)

• 1–2 tsp sugar

• Ginger slice

• Cardamom (if using)

Tip: Don’t worry about exact spice measurements. Chai is forgiving. Start small - you can always add more next time.

Step 3: Bring to a Gentle Boil

Turn the heat tomedium. Stir occasionally.

You’ll start to see tiny bubbles around the edges. That’s perfect. Let itsimmer for 3–5 minutes.

Want stronger chai? Let it simmer a bit longer - up to 7 minutes. Just don’t walk away. It can boil over quickly.

Step 4: Watch for the Boil-Up

When the chai starts to rise and bubble up,turn off the heat immediately. This is your signal that it’s ready.

Pro Tip: If it starts to overflow, lift the pot off the heat for a second. It’ll settle down fast.

Step 5: Strain and Serve

Place a fine mesh strainer over your mug. Carefully pour the chai through to catch the tea leaves and spices.

No strainer? A clean cloth or even a coffee filter can work in a pinch.

What to Expect (So You Don’t Second-Guess Yourself)

• Color: A rich tan or light brown - not too dark, not too pale.

• Smell: Warm, slightly spicy, and inviting.

• Taste: Creamy, slightly sweet, with a gentle kick from the ginger and cardamom.

If it’s too strong, add a splash of milk.

Too weak? Simmer longer next time.

Too sweet? Cut the sugar in half.

Not sweet enough? Stir in a little more after serving.

Common First-Time Questions

Q: What if I don’t have cardamom or ginger?

A: No problem. You can skip them and still have a delicious basic chai. Or try cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg if you have those.

Q: Can I make more than one cup at a time?

A: Yes! Just double or triple the ingredients. The method stays the same.

Q: Can I store leftover chai?

A: You can refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Q: What if I don’t like it too milky?

A: Use more water and less milk - try 1.5 cups water and 0.5 cup milk.

Once You’re Comfortable, Try These Easy Upgrades

• Add a cinnamon stick while simmering for a sweeter, deeper flavor.

• Use jaggery or brown sugar instead of white sugar for a richer taste.

• Add a few cloves or a tiny piece of star anise for more complexity.

• Make it iced:Let it cool, then pour over ice for a refreshing summer version.

Why Chai Is More Than Just a Drink

Making chai is about more than caffeine. It’s a small, grounding ritual. You’re not just boiling tea - you’re slowing down, even if just for five minutes.

You’re watching the milk swirl, the tea deepen in color, the spices bloom. You’re creating something with your hands. And when you take that first sip, it’s not just warm - it’s calming.

When You Want the Same Flavor, Even Faster

Some days, even five minutes feels like too much. That’s whenTea India makes it easier. Their chai blends are made with100% Indian tea leaves andpremium spices, so you get the same bold, creamy flavor - without measuring or guessing.

Just steep a tea bag in hot water, add milk and sugar if you like, and you’re done. It’s chai, simplified - perfect for busy mornings or late-night cravings.

Final Takeaway

We know your love for tea runs deep - and we also know how quickly those café visits can add up. A single cup of chai shouldn’t cost as much as lunch.

That’s why thiseasy chai tea recipe is a game-changer. It’s simple, affordable, and gives you that same warm, spiced comfort right at home - no fancy equipment, no guesswork.

And for the days when even five minutes feels like too much? There’s a faster way.

With  Tea India’s Instant Chai Sachets, you can have real chai in just10 seconds. Justtear, pour hot water, and sip. That’s it. No steeping, no simmering - just bold, creamy chai made with100% Indian tea leaves andauthentic spices. It’s everything you love about chai, minus the wait (and the price tag).

Whether you’re brewing from scratch or reaching for a sachet,Tea India makes it easy to enjoy real chai - anytime, anywhere.