12 Indian Chai Varieties Every Tea Lover Needs

Choose Your Next Cup: A Quick Chai Guide

Chai covers a wide spectrum—from the fast, robust cutting chai at a Mumbai stall to the careful saffron-kissed cup served for guests. If you want a reliable everyday option, start with classic masala chai or a strong Assam kadak brew. For something restorative, pick adrak chai or tulsi chai. If you’re entertaining, a small saffron or Kashmiri kahwa adds ceremony without being fussy. And if you’re curious about modern flavors, sample artisanal packs to find blends that reflect both region and imagination. A few practical tips make home brewing easier: keep a basic ratio (1 cup water : 1 cup milk) and adjust tea quantity and simmer time for strength; bruise whole spices to unlock oils; and taste as you go so you don’t over-extract delicate leaves like Darjeeling. For sourcing, look for whole-spice masala blends, single-origin teas for base clarity, and small tea houses that disclose their spice sourcing. Treat this list as a tasting map—try one new chai a week and note what you like. The more cups you make, the better you’ll become at balancing spice, tea, and milk to match your preferences.