Black tea with milk, sweetened with jaggery instead of sugar. Darker, caramel-toned, and earthier in taste — a small, strong glass of chai that’s a genuine Kolkata street-side staple.
Prep time: 5 mins | Cook time: 8 mins | Servings: 2
Ingredients
- 1 cup water
- 2 tsp loose black tea leaves (strong variety, like CTC)
- 1 cup milk
- 2-3 tbsp grated jaggery (adjust to taste)
- 1/2-inch ginger, crushed (optional)
Method
- Bring water to a boil, adding crushed ginger if using.
- Add tea leaves and let it boil for 2 minutes until the water darkens.
- Pour in the milk and bring to a rolling boil, stirring occasionally.
- Reduce heat and add grated jaggery, stirring until fully dissolved.
- Simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the chai turns a deep caramel-brown.
- Strain into small glasses and serve hot and strong.