12 Indian Chai Varieties Every Tea Lover Needs

3. Elaichi Chai (Cardamom Tea)

Elaichi chai highlights the floral, aromatic lift of green cardamom. Cardamom pods are lightly crushed to release their oils and added to the boiling water or directly cracked into the pan with tea leaves and milk. Use 2–3 green pods per two cups for a fragrant but balanced cup. With the same 1:1 water-to-milk baseline, cardamom chai tends to feel lighter and cleaner than heavy masala blends while still offering an unmistakable sweet-spice aroma. Many families prefer elaichi chai after meals or alongside sweets because the cardamom’s floral notes complement desserts well. It’s also a staple in everyday offering rituals at home and makes a subtle, elegant alternative when you want something less peppery than full masala. For a quick variation, combine crushed cardamom with a touch of cinnamon or a sliver of fresh ginger. Packaged cardamom chai blends are widely available if you want a consistent, ready-to-brew option.