Kadak Chai; A Delightful Spiced Tea From India

Indians' love for chai, also known as tea, is no secret. It is a love affair that has been brewing for centuries, with the drink being an integral part of the country's cultural and social fabric. From street-side vendors to high-end cafes, chai is a ubiquitous beverage that is enjoyed by people from all walks of life.

One of the reasons for chai's popularity in India is its versatility. It can be enjoyed hot or cold, with or without milk, and can be flavoured with a variety of spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and ginger. In fact, chai is often referred to as masala chai, which literally means "spiced tea". Chai is not just a beverage in India, but a ritual. It is often served during social gatherings, business meetings, and even as a welcoming gesture to guests. The act of preparing and serving chai is seen as a sign of hospitality and warmth and is an important part of Indian culture.

The love for chai extends beyond just the beverage itself, but also to the art of making it. Chai wallahs, or tea vendors, can be found on almost every street corner in India, preparing and serving chai with precision and skill. Each chai wallah has their own unique recipe, passed down through generations, which gives the chai a distinct flavour and aroma. Chai has also evolved to become an ingredient in its own right, with chefs and food enthusiasts using it to infuse flavour into dishes like biryani, cakes, and even ice cream. In short, chai is not just a beverage in India, but a cultural icon that represents warmth, hospitality, and social connection. It is a testament to the rich culinary traditions and diversity of India and will continue to be a beloved drink for generations to come.

According to legend, tea was first discovered in 2737 BC by the Chinese Emperor Shen Nong, who was boiling water under a tree when some leaves from the tree fell into the water and infused it with their flavour. From China, tea spread to other parts of Asia, including India. In India, chai took on a unique identity with the addition of spices and milk, creating the beloved masala chai that is so popular today. During the British colonial era, tea plantations were established in India, and tea became a major export commodity. The British also played a role in popularizing tea consumption in India and introduced the concept of afternoon tea, which became a fashionable social ritual. After India gained independence, chai became a symbol of national pride and cultural identity and was embraced by people from all walks of life. Chai wallahs, or tea vendors, could be found on almost every street corner, serving up steaming cups of chai to customers throughout the day.

What is Kadak Chai?

Kadak chai is a type of tea that is known for its bold, robust flavor and strong aroma. What sets it apart from other types of tea is its unique blend of spices, which gives it a distinct and powerful taste. The spices used in kadak chai can vary but typically include cardamom, ginger, cinnamon, and black pepper. These spices are known for their warming properties, making kadak chai the perfect beverage for cold winter days. One of the most special things about kadak chai is the way it is prepared. It is typically made by boiling loose tea leaves and spices in water for several minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and create a rich and complex taste. It is then strained and served with milk and sugar to balance out the bold flavors. Kadak chai is not just any ordinary tea, my friend - it's the kind of tea that kicks you in the face (in the best way possible) and wakes you up from even the deepest slumber.

How is kadak chai different from masala chai?

While both kadak chai and masala chai are popular Indian tea beverages, there are some key differences between the two. Kadak chai is a strong and robust tea that is brewed with loose tea leaves and a blend of spices, such as ginger, cardamom, cinnamon, and black pepper. It is typically served with milk and sugar, and is known for its bold flavor and strong aroma. Masala chai, on the other hand, is a spiced tea that is made by brewing tea leaves with a blend of spices such as ginger, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and sometimes fennel seeds or star anise. Masala chai often includes a stronger emphasis on spices than kadak chai, giving it a more complex and aromatic flavour profile. While both kadak chai and masala chai are prepared using similar ingredients, the main difference is in the balance and intensity of flavours. Kadak chai focuses more on the strong and bold tea taste, while masala chai highlights aromatic and flavorful spices.

Here's how you can make delicious kadak chai at home-

Ingredients

• 2 cups water
• 1 teaspoon loose tea leaves (Assam tea works well)
• 1-2 inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
• 2-3 cardamom pods, crushed
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1-2 black peppercorns
• 1 cup milk
• Sugar or honey (to taste)

Method

• In a saucepan, bring the water to a boil.
• Add the tea leaves, grated ginger, cardamom pods, cinnamon stick, and black peppercorns to the water. Let it boil for 3-4 minutes.
• Add the milk and let the mixture come to a boil again.
• Reduce the heat and let the tea simmer for 2-3 minutes.
• Strain the tea mixture into a cup.
• Add sugar or honey to taste.