Milk first or water first? The right way to make the perfect chai

Chai, loved by millions, is a comforting ritual, a cultural experience, and for many, an art form. However, the debate over the "right" way to make chai has persisted for ages: Should you start with water or milk? While there’s no definitive answer, the method you choose can dramatically impact the flavour, strength, and creaminess of your chai.

The two main methods

1. Boil tea in water first (traditional method)
This is the classic way most households prepare chai:

• Start with water. Boil the required amount of water.
• Add tea leaves or tea powder. Let the tea steep in the boiling water for a few minutes.
• Add milk and sugar. After the tea has steeped, pour in milk and sweeten it to taste.
• Boil again. Bring the mixture to a boil, ensuring the flavours meld perfectly.
• Strain and serve.

This method extracts the maximum flavour and strength from the tea leaves, resulting in a robust and full-bodied chai.

It's perfect for those who love their tea strong and aromatic.

2. Boil milk and water together first
This method is popular among those who enjoy a richer, creamier chai:

• Mix milk and water. Combine them in your preferred ratio (usually 1:1 or 2:1).
• Bring to a boil. Heat the mixture until it starts bubbling.
• Add tea leaves or tea powder. Let the tea simmer in the milk-water mixture.
• Add sugar, strain, and serve.

The tea steeps gently, creating a smoother flavour.

The milk absorbs the essence of the tea, giving it a richer and creamier texture.

Which method is better?
The "best" way to make chai depends on your taste preferences:

For strong, bold chai: Stick to the traditional method of boiling tea in water first.

For creamy, mellow chai: Start with a milk-and-water mixture.

The key is to experiment with ratios, steeping times, and ingredients to create your perfect cup.

Bonus: Sustainable tips for used tea powder
Don't throw away your used tea powder! Here are some eco-friendly ways to reuse it:

Natural pesticide: Boil the used tea powder, strain it, and mix it with a few drops of essential oil for an effective spray.

Cleaning aid: Use boiled tea as a natural cleaning solution for glassware and crockery.

Plant manure: Dry and store used tea powder to use as manure. Its tannins enrich soil acidity, perfect for flowering plants like roses.

Odour remover: Place dried tea powder in your fridge or cabinets to absorb unpleasant odours. Add a few drops of essential oil for freshness.