Chai is the generic word for tea in Hindi, a language spoken in northern India. Masala chai is tea cooked in milk and spices and is aromatic, a tad spicy and often rather filling. I have to say that I started becoming a real fan of masala chai since I discovered this version while on a trip to Jaisalmer, a gorgeous yellow sandstone city in the Indian desert. The home-stay hotel served this tea on every occasion. From the rather vague instructions that I got from the proprietress, I managed to come up with this winner. This masala chai manages to be light, while keeping the satisfying aroma and taste of masala chai.
In the USA, I noticed that chai is used to mean masala chai but be aware dear reader, there is a difference! Needless to say, the "chai" that you can buy is not even a shadow of the real thing. But you will find out soon when you have made this one. This recipe can be scaled up quite easily. —The Minimalist Indian
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