Perfect Adrak Wali Chai Recipe


Perfect Adrak Wali Chai Recipe



6 min
2 people
5 min




Introduction

 

I remember my first encounter with Adrak Wali Chai vividly. It was a chilly evening in Pune, and I found myself in Kavita’s vibrant kitchen, surrounded by her colorful culinary creations. The aroma of ginger, cloves, and cardamom filled the air, promising a warm, comforting cup of chai. This wasn’t just any tea; it was an experience, a tradition shared among friends and family, evoking memories of home and warmth.

 

Back then, I was traveling extensively, encountering different tea varieties across regions. But nothing compared to the Adrak Wali Chai I crafted with Kavita that day. The simplicity of boiling water, adding tea leaves, and infusing it with spices took on a magical quality. It’s a recipe so dear to my heart that I made sure to hang it up in my kitchen for anyone making tea at my place. Now, I’m excited to share this cherished recipe with you.

 

 

 

Ingredients of Perfect Adrak Wali Chai

 

  • For Two Cups:
    • 1 cup Water
    • 1 cup Milk
    • 2 teaspoons Loose Tea Leaves
    • 2 teaspoons Sugar (adjust to taste)
    • 2-inch piece of Ginger (crushed)
    • 2 Cloves
    • 1 Green Cardamom Pod
    • 2 strands of Saffron (optional)

 

Instructions of Perfect Adrak Wali Chai

 

Step 1: Boil the Water

A saucepan with water being brought to a boil over medium heat.

Pour 1 cup of water into a saucepan and bring it to a boil over medium heat.

 

Step 2: Add Tea Leaves and Spices

Adding loose tea leaves, crushed ginger, cloves, and a cardamom pod to boiling water.

Add 2 teaspoons of loose tea leaves to the boiling water. Then, add the crushed ginger, 2 cloves, and 1 green cardamom pod. Let it boil for 1-2 minutes to infuse the flavors.

 

Step 3: Pour in the Milk

Pouring a cup of milk into the saucepan with tea and spices.

Add 1 cup of milk to the saucepan. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Keep an eye on it to prevent the milk from boiling over.

 

Step 4: Sweeten the Tea

Adding sugar to the saucepan with tea, milk, and spices, stirring it in.

Add 2 teaspoons of sugar (or adjust to taste) and stir until fully dissolved. Let the tea simmer for another minute.

 

Step 5: Add the Final Touch

Adding saffron strands to the boiling tea as a final aromatic touch.

Just before removing the tea from the heat, add the saffron strands if using, and give it a quick stir to infuse the aroma.

 

Step 6: Strain and Serve

Straining the Adrak Wali Chai into cups using a fine mesh strainer.

Use a fine mesh strainer to strain the tea into cups. Ensure all the spices and tea leaves are filtered out. Serve the hot Adrak Wali Chai in cups, preferably in traditional earthenware for an authentic experience.

 

 

 

About the Perfect Adrak Wali Chai Recipe

 

Adrak Wali Chai, also known as Ginger Tea, is more than just a beverage in many Indian households. It’s a ritual, a moment of relaxation, and often a remedy for common ailments. The combination of ginger, cloves, and cardamom not only adds warmth but also infuses the tea with a robust flavor profile that is both refreshing and invigorating. This particular recipe brings together the perfect balance of spices, milk, and tea leaves, ensuring a rich, aromatic cup of chai every time.

 

Whether you’re sipping it to kickstart your day or to wind down in the evening, Adrak Wali Chai offers a sense of comfort and familiarity. The addition of saffron gives it a luxurious touch, making it a special treat that you can enjoy on any occasion.

 

 

Cooking Tips

 

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh ginger and spices for the best flavor. Pre-ground spices can lose their potency over time.
  • Adjust Sweetness to Taste: The amount of sugar can be adjusted according to your preference. Some like it sweeter, while others prefer less.
  • Don’t Over-boil: Boiling the tea for too long can make it bitter. Keep an eye on it to achieve the perfect balance.
  • Experiment with Spices: You can add black pepper for a spicier kick or mint for a refreshing twist. Don’t be afraid to make it your own.
  • Serve Immediately: Adrak Wali Chai is best enjoyed fresh. Make it just before serving to enjoy the full flavor and aroma.

 

 

Pairing Guide

 

  • Perfect with Snacks: Pair your Adrak Wali Chai with traditional Indian snacks like samosas, pakoras, or biscuits for a delightful experience.
  • Ideal for Breakfast: Enjoy it with your morning breakfast of parathas, idlis, or a simple toast and butter.
  • Great with Desserts: Adrak Wali Chai complements sweet treats like laddoos, jalebis, or a slice of cake.
  • Enjoy with Light Meals: It’s a great companion for light meals like sandwiches or salads, offering a comforting balance.
  • Perfect for Evening Relaxation: Sip it alone or with friends in the evening for a calming, soothing end to your day.

 

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions about Adrak Wali Chai

 

  1. What is Adrak Wali Chai?

    • Answer: Adrak Wali Chai is a traditional Indian ginger tea, made by boiling water, tea leaves, ginger, and other spices, then adding milk and sugar.

  2. Can I make Adrak Wali Chai without milk?

    • Answer: Yes, you can make a version without milk, known as “Adrak Ki Chai” or “Ginger Black Tea.” Simply omit the milk and follow the same steps.

  3. How can I make Adrak Wali Chai spicier?

    • Answer: To make it spicier, add a small piece of crushed black pepper or increase the amount of ginger in the recipe.

  4. What are the benefits of drinking Adrak Wali Chai?

    • Answer: Adrak Wali Chai is known for its warming properties and can help soothe colds, improve digestion, and provide a refreshing energy boost.

  5. Can I add other spices to Adrak Wali Chai?

    • Answer: Yes, you can experiment with spices like black pepper, mint, or even cinnamon to customize the flavor according to your taste.

  6. Is Adrak Wali Chai good for sore throats?

    • Answer: Yes, the ginger in Adrak Wali Chai can help soothe sore throats and reduce inflammation due to its natural anti-inflammatory properties.

  7. How long should I boil Adrak Wali Chai?

    • Answer: Boil the tea for about 1-2 minutes after adding the spices and milk. Over-boiling can make the tea bitter.

  8. Can I use powdered ginger instead of fresh?

    • Answer: Fresh ginger is preferred for its robust flavor, but you can use powdered ginger in a pinch. Use about 1/4 teaspoon of ginger powder for two cups of tea.

  9. What’s the best time to drink Adrak Wali Chai?

    • Answer: Adrak Wali Chai can be enjoyed at any time of the day, but it’s especially comforting in the morning or evening as a relaxing beverage.

  10. Can I store Adrak Wali Chai?

    • Answer: It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can store it in the fridge for up to a day. Reheat gently and add fresh spices to rejuvenate the flavor.