How to prep a cup of Chai?
The Secret to Perfect Chai (And Why You Should Do a Little Dance)
Growing up, chai wasn't just a drink—it was a ritual. Chai is the word for Tea in Hindi. Love to dive into the history of Chai in another blog. But the clatter of the pot, the steam rising with that unmistakable aroma of black Lipton loose leaf and some whole milk with a little cardamom and occasionally some ginger, the way my family would pause everything just to share a cup together. Now, after 25 years in New York City, I've learned that this simple ritual connects cultures across the globe. Jackson Heights is home of different preparation of Chai depending on the region of South Asia you are from.
This Christmas, I'm sharing my modified family chai recipes with friends and neighbors. And now, I'm sharing them with you.
The Heart of a Great Cup of Chai
Before we get to the recipes, let me tell you a secret: the best chai isn't about perfection. It's about presence. It's about taking five minutes to slow down, breathe in that spiced steam, and maybe—just maybe—do a little happy dance while you wait.
Here's what goes into my chai blend:
The Tea Base
1 tablespoon Assam CTC Black Tea (the good stuff—those tiny granules that brew dark and strong if some green tea leaves mixed in gets your better taste)
½ tablespoon of another black tea you love (I like to mix it up)
The Spices
2 peppercorns (for a little kick)
1 clove (warm and aromatic)
½ to 1 cinnamon stick
1-2 cardamom pods (the soul of chai—crush them lightly)
¼ teaspoon ginger, fresh or powdered
The Liquid
½ cup water
½ cup whole milk or creamy oat milk
Now, if you've got one of my chai tea bags, here are two ways to brew the perfect cup:
Quick Chai Break (5 minutes)
This is for those busy mornings when you need comfort fast.
Steep your tea bag in ⅔ cup boiling water for 4 minutes
Warm ⅓ cup of whole milk (or creamy oat milk) in the microwave for 30 seconds
Pour the warm milk into your steeped tea
Do a happy dance 💃
Sip and enjoy
That's it. Simple, satisfying, and ready before your toast pops up.
Street Chai Break (10 minutes)
This is how chai wallahs make it on the streets of Mumbai—rich, sweet, and meant to be shared.
Steep 2 tea bags in 1 cup boiling water for 4 minutes
In a small pot, warm ½ cup whole milk with 1/4 cup condensed milk or evaporated milk. Adjust or add sugar to suite your taste preference.
Pour the tea into the milk mixture and bring to a boil (watch it carefully—milk likes to escape!)
Keep it at a soft rolling boil for 1 minute
Do a Bollywood dance 🎬
Pour into cups and share with a friend
The condensed milk makes this version sweet and creamy—no extra sugar needed. It's indulgent, it's authentic, and it's absolutely worth the extra few minutes.
Why the Dance?
You might think I'm joking about the dancing. I'm not. 😊
Here in Jackson Heights, I see it every day—the way food brings people together, the way a shared meal (or drink) breaks down barriers and builds community. Chai is meant to be enjoyed, not rushed. The dance is my reminder to be present, to celebrate the small moments, and to never take a good cup of chai for granted.
So whether you're sipping solo on a cold morning or sharing a pot with loved ones this holiday season, I hope you'll take a moment to pause, breathe in that beautiful aroma, and maybe let yourself smile.
And if you want to experience the full magic of Jackson Heights—the street food, the stories, the hidden gems that locals love—I'd be honored to show you around.
Merry Christmas and happy brewing.
— Jim, Chai Bhai Tours
Want to taste the real flavors of Queens? Book a tour and let's explore together.
