How to Cook Masala Tea: A Flavorful Journey from the Subcontinent

Tea holds a sacred place in the hearts of many, especially in India, where it is often referred to as religion. Whether you are sipping on a warm cup first thing in the morning or enjoying a comforting brew later in the day, tea is a beloved part of the culture. In this guide, we explore the art of cooking masala tea, a delightful way to add complexity to your daily tea routine.

Ingredients and Preparation for Masala Tea

The basic ingredients for masala tea include water, milk, and tea leaves. However, when you add spices and herbs, you unlock a world of flavors. For the masala blend, traditionally you need ginger, lemongrass, and cinnamon. This guide will walk you through the process of grinding and brewing your masala tea for a rich, aromatic experience.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Masala Tea

To start, heat up about 1 1/3 cups of water in a pot on medium flame of heat for 2 cups of tea. While the water is warming, crush the masala using a mortar and pestle or a coffee/spice grinder. This process ensures that the spices and herbs release their essences.

Once the water is heated, add the crushed masala to the water, along with tea leaves. You can also add sweeteners such as sugar, honey, or maple syrup according to your taste. Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the masala to release its essence into the tea.

Add 3/4 cup of milk and stir. Be mindful that the tea can overflow easily, so keep a close eye on it. Once the mixture starts to boil, turn off the heat and cover the pot or kettle with a lid for one minute to let the flavors settle.

Now, your masala tea is ready to drink. This flavorful beverage is a perfect way to start your day or to unwind after a busy day.

A Traditional Twist: Making Loose Leaf Tea into a Fine Powder

For those who prefer grinding their tea leaves to a powder before brewing, you can easily do this at home. Start by adding loose leaf tea to a coffee grinder and pulse it intermittently until the leaves turn into a fine powder. Transfer the powder to a mortar and pestle and grind it further by rubbing the powder against the mortar, until it reaches a fine consistency. This process ensures that the flavors are released more quickly during steeping.

Explore Malala Tea: A Traditional Herbs in a Cup

For herbal enthusiasts, learning about Malala tea is a fascinating way to expand your tea horizons. Made from the Malva sylvestris plant, also known as common mallow or high mallow, Malala tea is not just a delight for the palate but also has multiple health benefits. The process is simple: boil water, steep the dried leaves, and enjoy.

To make 2 cups of Malala tea, use about one teaspoon of dried Malva sylvestris leaves per cup of water. Boil the water, then when it reaches a rolling boil, remove it from the heat and add the leaves. Let it steep for 5-10 minutes to achieve the desired strength. Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the leaves, and you can add honey or lemon to taste if desired.

Mala tea is known for its soothing and calming properties, making it a go-to remedy for digestive issues and respiratory problems. Its mild, slightly sweet flavor is a treat for the senses, whether enjoyed hot or cold.

Whether you are interested in the traditional preparation of masala tea or the herbal delights of Malala tea, there is something in this guide to inspire you to explore and enjoy the world of Indian tea. So, why not give it a try today and embark on a flavorful adventure?

Explore More: Find out more about how to make chai spice, the role of spices in other Indian dishes, and the cultural significance of tea in India.