Organic Chai Black Tea

Chai tea is the Indian art of pairing a robust black tea with a traditional blend of warming spices. Our recipe follows the masala tradition: an organic Assam from South India, rounded out by six spices chosen for their balance and depth.

This comforting drink is equally at home on a brisk morning or a rainy afternoon. Browse our black teas to keep exploring.

The flavour profile of our Chai black tea

The first sip reveals the malty roundness of the Assam, the backbone of the blend at 54%. This Indian black tea brings a restrained, well-balanced bitterness with a warming finish.

Then come the spices, in a carefully choreographed sequence:

• Cinnamon sticks: a woody, sweet note — the defining aroma of chai.
• Ground cardamom: a fresh, camphor-and-citrus lift that lingers on the finish.
• Ginger: a gentle heat that warms the palate.
• Anise and fennel: a soft, anise sweetness that rounds out the blend.
• Clove: spiced depth, almost floral.

Together they form a dense, harmonious blend with no single note overpowering the rest. Cardamom and cinnamon frame the heart, while ginger and clove bring the long, lingering finish.

If you enjoy indulgent black teas, you might also love our Pistachio black tea, or explore which black teas suit your tasting profile.

How to brew Chai black tea

There are two classic approaches: a straightforward water infusion, or the traditional Indian milk-based recipe, the beloved masala chai latte.

Water infusion: heat the water to 80°C (175°F), use 15 to 20 g per litre (roughly 2 teaspoons per cup), and steep for 7 to 10 minutes depending on your preferred strength. Strain and enjoy as is, or with a splash of milk.

Homemade chai latte: in a small saucepan, gently warm 250 ml of water and 250 ml of milk over low heat. Add 2 tablespoons of our blend and let it simmer for 8 minutes without boiling. Strain and sweeten with honey or cane sugar to taste.

For a deeper look at how chai compares to other teas, see our green tea vs. black tea guide.

Storing your Chai black tea

Keep this blend in an airtight tin, away from light, moisture and strong odours. The whole spices (cinnamon, clove) hold their aromatic intensity for up to 24 months after opening. Packed with care in our workshop.

Frequently asked questions

What is chai tea?
Chai tea is a traditional Indian blend that pairs a full-bodied black tea (typically Assam) with spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, ginger and clove. In Hindi, "chai" simply means "tea." The word masala refers to the spice mixture that gives it its character.

How do you make chai tea?
Steep 15 to 20 g per litre at 80°C (175°F) for 7 to 10 minutes for a classic brew. For a chai latte, simmer the blend in equal parts water and milk, then strain and sweeten to your liking.

Which spices are in chai tea?
Our recipe brings together six organic spices: cinnamon sticks, ground cardamom, ginger, anise, clove and fennel. This combination captures the spirit of Indian masala chai, without any harsh bitterness.

What are the benefits of chai tea?
Chai tea is prized for its warming, comforting character. To explore the topic further, you can read more about black tea.

Where can I buy organic chai tea?
Our house sources this organic chai tea from growers committed to certified organic farming. Make it part of your daily ritual and bring the traditional masala chai recipe home.