Chocolate Chai Tea
Chocolate Chai Tea Recipe from India | Ingredients Included
Introduction
Indulge in a decadent and comforting drink with this Chocolate Chai Tea recipe. Perfect for cozy nights in or as a special treat, this beverage combines the rich flavors of chocolate and chai for a unique and delicious experience.
History
Chocolate Chai Tea is a modern twist on traditional chai tea, which has been enjoyed for centuries in India and other parts of the world. The addition of chocolate adds a luxurious and indulgent touch to this beloved beverage.
Ingredients
- 0.25 cup water
- 1 chai tea bag OR black tea bag
- 3 tbsp white sugar
- 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder, preferably Dutch-process
- 2 cup milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 0.5 tsp ground cinnamon
- 0.5 tsp ground nutmeg
- sweetened whipped cream
- 2 (3 inches) cinnamon sticks
How to prepare
- In a small saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Add the tea bag, cover, and remove from the heat. Allow it to steep for 3 to 5 minutes.
- Remove the tea bag and stir in the sugar and cocoa. Place the saucepan back on the stove over medium heat and bring it to a gentle boil. Add the milk, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Heat the mixture until it is warmed through, but be careful not to let it boil.
- Pour the prepared mixture into mugs and garnish with whipped cream and a cinnamon stick.
Variations
- Experiment with different types of milk, such as almond or coconut milk, for a dairy-free version of this Chocolate Chai Tea. You can also add a splash of rum or whiskey for a boozy twist.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
To enhance the flavor of this Chocolate Chai Tea, be sure to use high-quality cocoa powder and chai tea. Adjust the amount of sugar to suit your taste preferences, and feel free to experiment with different spices such as cardamom or ginger for added complexity.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy this Chocolate Chai Tea on its own or pair it with your favorite dessert for a truly indulgent experience. Serve it hot or chilled, depending on your preference.
Cooking Techniques
Steeping the chai tea bag in hot water allows the flavors to infuse and develop fully. Be sure not to let the mixture boil once the milk is added to prevent curdling.
Ingredient Substitutions
Feel free to substitute the white sugar with honey or maple syrup for a different flavor profile. You can also use dark cocoa powder for a richer and more intense chocolate taste.
Make Ahead Tips
Prepare the Chocolate Chai Tea mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave when ready to serve.
Presentation Ideas
Garnish each mug of Chocolate Chai Tea with a sprinkle of cocoa powder or a dusting of cinnamon for a beautiful and inviting presentation. Add a cinnamon stick or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of elegance.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair this Chocolate Chai Tea with a slice of chocolate cake or a plate of cookies for a delightful dessert pairing. It also goes well with savory snacks such as cheese and crackers.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover Chocolate Chai Tea in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Calories: 200 per serving
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates: 28g per serving
Fats
Total Fat: 6g per serving
Proteins
Protein: 8g per serving
Vitamins and minerals
This Chocolate Chai Tea is a good source of calcium, iron, and vitamin D.
Alergens
Contains milk
Summary
This Chocolate Chai Tea is a delicious and satisfying beverage that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in essential vitamins and minerals, making it a nourishing treat.
Summary
Indulge in the rich and comforting flavors of Chocolate Chai Tea with this easy and delicious recipe. Perfect for any occasion, this beverage is sure to become a new favorite in your repertoire.
How did I get this recipe?
The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was many years ago, when I was a young girl visiting my aunt in India. I had always been fascinated by the vibrant colors and exotic flavors of Indian cuisine, and my aunt was a wonderful cook who graciously shared her knowledge with me.
One afternoon, as we sat in her kitchen sipping chai tea and nibbling on spicy samosas, my aunt suddenly leaned in and whispered, "I have a special recipe for you." She rummaged through a stack of old cookbooks and pulled out a tattered, yellowed piece of paper. "This," she said, handing it to me, "is my secret recipe for Chocolate Chai Tea."
I was intrigued. I had never heard of such a combination before - chocolate and chai tea? But my aunt assured me that it was a delicious and indulgent treat that would warm my soul on cold winter nights. She explained that the rich, velvety chocolate paired perfectly with the spicy, aromatic flavors of the chai, creating a decadent drink that was both comforting and invigorating.
I eagerly copied down the recipe, noting the precise measurements and careful instructions. My aunt watched me with a twinkle in her eye, knowing that I would treasure this recipe and carry it with me wherever I went.
When I returned home, I couldn't wait to try my hand at making Chocolate Chai Tea. I gathered all the ingredients - black tea, whole spices, milk, sugar, and of course, dark chocolate - and set to work in my own kitchen. The scent of cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves filled the air as I simmered the spices in water, creating a fragrant base for the tea.
Next, I added the milk and chocolate, watching as the mixture turned a rich, deep brown. I stirred in a spoonful of sugar, tasting the brew as it thickened and sweetened. Finally, I strained the tea into a delicate porcelain cup, inhaling the heady aroma of spiced chocolate as I took my first sip.
The flavor was exquisite. The chocolate was smooth and velvety, blending seamlessly with the bold, spicy notes of the chai. Each sip was a revelation, a symphony of flavors that danced on my tongue and warmed me from the inside out. I knew then that I had discovered a truly special recipe, one that would become a beloved tradition in my own home.
Over the years, I have shared my aunt's recipe for Chocolate Chai Tea with friends and family, passing on the legacy of this unique and delightful drink. Each time I make a pot of tea, I think of my aunt and the special bond we shared over our love of cooking and good food.
And so, as I sit here now, sipping a steaming cup of Chocolate Chai Tea, I am filled with gratitude for the memories and traditions that have shaped me into the cook I am today. My aunt's recipe will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the joy and connection that food can bring to our lives.