The Perfect Homemade Chai with Sugar-Free Simple Syrup
Cozy Up to an Aromatic Cup of Chai
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When it comes to comfort drinks, Chai stands alone for its soothing warmth and flavor. "Chai" is the Hindi word for "tea" and what we sometimes call "Chai Tea" is more accurately known as Masala Chai - a distinctive, sweet and spicy blend of tea, herbs, and milk
Chai has evolved into a beloved global favorite. And no wonder! It is unmistakable and delicious.
Take the Spice Road Home
Chai has a fascinating history. Originating in India over 5,000 years ago, this spicy tea was brewed as a medicinal tonic, using spices valued for their therapeutic properties and attracting the attention of traders throughout ancient travel routes.
Because the spices were in abundance, Indian food became known for the complex layering of flavors from these spices. The flavor adventure of Masala Chai is a world tour of these spices in a single mug. Chai recipes can be tailored to your own flavor preferences to include any or all of the following:
Cardamom delivers citrusy sweetness
Cloves add a warm, earthy depth
Cinnamon imparts a subtle sweetness and a hint of heat
Ginger provides a spicy kick and aids in digestion
Black pepper adds a touch of pungency
Nutmeg is known for a slight sweetness and hint of pine
Fennel contributes refreshing and aromatic sweetness of licorice
Allspice is a synthesis of flavors that adds depth
Star anise contributes a delicate licorice flavor
A successful, homemade chai recipe isn't about which spices you add or how much of each spice, but the process involved. The flavors blend harmoniously and are balanced with milk and sugar. (Except we'll use Sinless Simple Syrup!)
How Healthy is Homemade Chai?
Beyond flavor appeal, chai spices also offer health benefits. Cardamom, revered in Ayurvedic medicine, is known for its digestive properties and antioxidant-rich profile. Cloves boast anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, making them a popular remedy for ailments ranging from toothaches to respiratory issues. Cinnamon is celebrated for its ability to regulate blood sugar levels and reduce inflammation, while ginger is prized for its anti-nausea and immune-boosting properties. Black pepper aids in digestion and enhances the bioavailability of other nutrients, while star anise is valued for its antimicrobial properties.
What's more? Warmed milk produces an amino acid called tryptophan (you've probably heard it associated with turkey/Thanksgiving food coma). Our bodies use tryptophan to produce serotonin and melatonin - both key factors in a restful, restorative sleep.
How's that for delicious medicine?!?
Why Make Your Own Chai?
The ritual of making tea is honored by many customs. And why not? There is comfort in a time-honored process, in knowing the ingredients in your nourishment, and in making something with your own hands.
Some of the popular coffee shops and brands use a premade Chai Syrup that you add to black tea and milk. Unfortunately, these are often packed with sugar (Starbucks Chai Latte has 42g of sugar! 😩) or artificial sweeteners (Skinny Mixes uses sucralose! 🫣) and artificial colors.
In about the same time it takes in the drive-thru, you can have a homemade chai with NONE of the bad stuff.
How to Enjoy Homemade Chai
If coffee isn't your cuppa, morning chai is a wonderful way to wake up. Not only does the black tea deliver a bit of alertness, the raucous spices will make your mouth feel alive.
Chai is also a delightful afternoon treat. The milk and spices will stave off the urge to snack. In cooler weather, the warmth of this drink will comfort you from the inside out. In warmer months, try it iced or blended for a very cool treat.
Warm milk is soporific (makes you sleepy) due to the tryptophan, so you might even consider homemade chai as a bedtime treat. You may want to swap black tea for caffeine free/decaf after dinner. Since Sinless Simple Syrup is sugar free, you won't have to worry that it will spike your blood sugar before bed and wake you at 2am. We're picturing a big mug of homemade chai, a good book, and a heavy blanket. MMMmmmmm. cozy bliss!
Take a break from the hustle and bustle, with a comforting cup of chai from scratch. This homemade chai recipe honors the rich history of Masala Chai with a modern, low-sugar twist.
