Delicious black tea blended with Indian spices
Chai Tea & Spices
Born in India, chai tea is a black tea warmed by a blend of spices: cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, clove, and pepper. Full-bodied, aromatic and comforting, it can be enjoyed on its own, with milk, or as a frothy chai latte. Alongside this beloved classic, our spiced teas bring together bold, character-driven blends, from warm vanilla to woody Christmas notes, for moments of pure indulgence and warmth.
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 the tea with milk, water and a little sugar until the cup is rich, spiced and deeply comforting.
What gives a great chai tea its soul is the balance of its spices. Cinnamon brings sweetness, cardamom adds fresh citrus notes, ginger lends warmth, while cloves and black pepper contribute intensity, sometimes rounded out with star anise or nutmeg. Layered over a robust black tea base, this blend creates a drink that is both invigorating and soothing, perfect for crisp mornings and quiet afternoon breaks alike.
At Thés & Traditions, you will find Chai black tea in its most authentic form, alongside an original take with our Chai Matcha green tea, which brings together warming spices and the soft, vegetal character of matcha.
How to make a chai latte?
The chai latte is the most indulgent way to enjoy chai tea. For a generous cup, gently warm a half-and-half blend of water and milk (dairy or plant-based) over low heat. Add a good spoonful of chai tea and let it steep for a few minutes, stirring as it warms, without letting it come to a rolling boil. Strain, sweeten to taste with honey or sugar, and froth the milk for a smooth, velvety texture. A pinch of cinnamon on top, and you're done.
In a hurry? Chai tea is just as lovely made simply with simmering water, steeped for four to five minutes, then softened with a splash of milk. Every cup, your way.
Choosing the right spiced tea
Beyond chai, the world of spiced teas is wonderfully varied. Those drawn to warm, comforting notes will enjoy blends built around cinnamon or vanilla, while bolder palates will appreciate ginger or the woody depth of Christmas teas. For a caffeine-free option, an Ayurvedic chai herbal infusion brings all the same soothing spices, perfect at any hour, even in the evening. Want to make it café-style at home? Follow our homemade chai latte recipe, made on the stovetop, with iced and caffeine-free variations.
Frequently Asked Questions about Chai Tea
What is chai tea?
Chai tea, or masala chai, is an Indian black tea spiced with a blend of warming ingredients such as cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, clove 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, clove and black pepper, sometimes joined by star anise or nutmeg. Every blend has its own unique 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, strain, sweeten, then froth the milk. Finish with a pinch of cinnamon.
Does chai tea contain caffeine?
Yes, since it is made with black tea, which is naturally caffeinated. For a caffeine-free version to enjoy in the evening, choose an ayurvedic chai made from a herbal infusion.
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. On the indulgent side, let yourself be drawn to 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 pleasure further, with notes of orange, cinnamon and warming spices. Chai tea itself is rooted in the great tradition of black tea, drawing on its roundness and body.
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