Masala Tea Powder is a blend of aromatic Indian spices used to enhance the flavor of regular chai. This homemade chai masala adds warmth, depth, and healing properties to your daily cup of tea, making it a perfect companion for chilly mornings or cozy evenings.
Ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1-inch dried ginger piece (or 1 tsp dry ginger powder)
- 10–12 green cardamom pods
- 10–12 cloves
- 15–20 dried basil leaves (Tulsi)
- 2-inch cinnamon stick
- 2 black cardamom pods
Instructions:
- Combine all the spices — black pepper, dried ginger, cardamom (green & black), cloves, basil leaves, and cinnamon — in a grinder.
- Blend into a fine powder.
- Store in an airtight glass jar in a cool, dry place.
- Use 1/4 teaspoon of the masala powder for every cup of tea.
Nutritional Information (General):
- Calories: 3 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 0.5g
- Protein: 0.1g
- Fat: 0.1g
- Fiber: 0.3g
- Calcium: 1%
- Iron: 1%
Cooking Tips & Variations:
- Extra spicy: Add a pinch of nutmeg or a few fennel seeds.
- Cooling version: Use dry rose petals for a floral aroma.
- Winter blend: Add star anise and a tiny bit of mace for a warming touch.
Common Mistakes & Fixes:
- Mistake: Over-grinding leads to heat and loss of aroma.
Fix: Pulse in short bursts and let the grinder cool down. - Mistake: Powder becomes lumpy over time.
Fix: Store with a dry clove or silica sachet in the jar. - Mistake: Tea becomes too strong or bitter.
Fix: Stick to just 1/4 teaspoon per cup — it’s very potent.
Chef’s Tips & Tricks:
- Toast spices lightly before grinding for enhanced aroma.
- Always use dry utensils when handling the powder to avoid moisture.
- Use whole spices for better flavor and shelf life rather than pre-ground versions.
Brand Suggestions:
- Spices: TRS or Natco (available at Tesco, ASDA, Sainsbury’s & Indian grocery stores)
- Tulsi (Dried Basil): Organic India or Pukka Herbs (available online or at Holland & Barrett)
- Storage Containers: IKEA spice jars or Kilner jars (Amazon UK)
Equipment & Tools:
- Spice grinder or dry jar mixer
- Airtight spice jar
- Measuring spoons
Pairing Suggestions:
- Enjoy with homemade biscuits or rusk.
- Perfect with Indian snacks like pakoras, samosas, or mathri.
- Can be gifted in small jars during festive seasons with custom labels.
Allergen Information:
- Nut-Free: Yes
- Dairy-Free: Yes
- Gluten-Free: Yes
- Vegan: Yes
- Note: Omit any specific ingredient if allergic or sensitive to it.
Recipe Instructions Step by Step:
Step 1: Measure the Spices
Take black pepper, dried ginger, green and black cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, and basil leaves in appropriate quantities.
Step 2: Dry Roast (Optional)
Lightly dry roast the spices on a low flame for 1–2 minutes (skip if using fresh dry spices).
Step 3: Grind to Powder
Transfer all the ingredients to a spice grinder. Blend to a fine powder in short pulses.
Step 4: Cool & Store
Allow the powder to cool completely and store in an airtight jar.
Step 5: Use for Tea
Use 1/4 tsp of this powder while boiling tea with milk, tea leaves, and sugar. Enjoy a hot, fragrant cup of masala chai!