Chai Tea and Spiced Teas

What is chai tea?

In Hindi, the word "chai" simply means "tea." In the Western world, however, chai tea refers to the beloved Indian masala chai: a full-bodied black tea, most often Assam-based, steeped with a warming blend of spices. A national drink in India, it is traditionally prepared by simmering tea with milk, water and a little sugar until the cup is rich, spiced and deeply comforting.

The soul of a great chai tea lies in the balance of its spices. Cinnamon brings gentle sweetness, cardamom adds fresh, citrusy notes, ginger delivers warmth, while cloves and black pepper offer intensity, sometimes rounded out with star anise or nutmeg. Built on a robust black tea base, this blend creates a drink that is both invigorating and soothing, perfect for cool mornings and quiet afternoon breaks alike.

At Thés & Traditions, you'll find our Chai black tea in its most authentic form, alongside an original take with our Chai Matcha green tea, which weaves warming spices together with the gentle, vegetal smoothness of matcha.

How to make a chai latte?

A chai latte is the most indulgent way to enjoy chai tea. For a generous cup, gently heat a half-and-half blend of water and milk (dairy or plant-based) over low heat. Add a heaped spoonful of chai tea and let it steep for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, without letting it come to a full boil. Strain, sweeten to taste with honey or sugar, and froth the milk for a velvety finish. A pinch of cinnamon on top, and you're done.

In a hurry? Chai tea is just as lovely brewed simply on its own: steep in hot (not boiling) water for four to five minutes, then soften with a splash of milk. Every cup, your own ritual.

Choosing the right spiced tea

Beyond chai, the world of spiced teas is wonderfully varied. Those drawn to warming notes will love blends built around cinnamon or vanilla, while bolder palates tend to gravitate toward ginger or the woody, festive character of Christmas teas. For a caffeine-free option, an ayurvedic chai herbal infusion delivers all the same comforting spices, perfect to enjoy at any hour, even in the evening.

Frequently asked questions about chai tea

What is chai tea?
Chai tea, or masala chai, is an Indian black tea infused with a blend of spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, cloves and pepper. Full-bodied and comforting, it can be enjoyed plain, with milk, or as a chai latte.

Which spices go into a chai tea?
The most common are cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, cloves and black pepper, sometimes rounded out with star anise or nutmeg. Every blend has its own balance.

How do you make a chai latte?
Gently heat equal parts water and milk with a spoonful of chai tea, let it steep for a few minutes, then strain, sweeten and froth the milk. Finish with a pinch of cinnamon.

Does chai tea contain caffeine?
Yes, because it is made with black tea, which is naturally caffeinated. For a caffeine-free version to enjoy in the evening, try an ayurvedic chai made with a herbal infusion instead.

Our selection of chai teas and spiced teas

For chai purists, Chai Black Tea remains the classic reference, while Chai Matcha offers a softer, more vegetal take. For those who love warming spice, let yourself be tempted by Vanilla Black Tea, Vanilla Cinnamon Green Tea, or the deep, woody Cinnamon Orange Pu-erh.

As winter draws near, our Christmas teas carry that spiced warmth further, with notes of orange, cinnamon, and gentle spice. Chai tea itself is deeply rooted in the great tradition of black tea, borrowing its roundness and full body.