Description
This authentic homemade chai powder blends rich, aromatic spices for the perfect cup of spiced tea. Whether used for a classic chai latte, baking, or savory dishes, this versatile mix brings warmth and depth to any recipe.
Ingredients
Scale
Makes ~1.5 cups
- 3 tbsp green cardamom pods, ground
- 2 tbsp Ceylon cinnamon sticks, ground
- 1.5 tbsp freshly grated ginger, dried and powdered
- 1 tbsp whole cloves, crushed
- 1 tbsp black peppercorns, toasted and ground
- 1 tsp nutmeg, freshly grated
- ½ cup roasted fenugreek seeds (optional, for malty depth)
Substitution Tips:
- Swap 1 tbsp cardamom for ½ tsp vanilla powder for a floral twist.
- Use turmeric instead of nutmeg for a milder, anti-inflammatory option.
- Add star anise if you love a hint of licorice flavor.
Instructions
Roast Fenugreek Seeds for Depth
- Toast fenugreek seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3 minutes until fragrant.
- Let cool, then grind into a fine powder. (Tip: Add a cinnamon stick to the grinder for extra freshness.)
Combine & Adjust Spices
- Mix all the spices in a bowl.
- Taste and tweak: Too peppery? Add more cinnamon. Too mild? Stir in a pinch of cayenne.
- Store adjustments in a journal for future consistency.
Store in an Airtight Jar
- Transfer to a glass jar to maintain freshness.
- Add a bay leaf or clove-studded orange peel to repel moisture.
- (Bonus: Freeze portions in ice cube trays for long-term storage.)
Notes
- Chai-Spiced Baking: Mix into cookies, pancakes, or muffins for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Savory Uses: Rub onto grilled chicken or stir into lentil soups.
- Hot Chocolate Hack: Sprinkle into hot chocolate for a smoky, spicy kick.
- Storage: Avoid plastic jars to prevent off-flavors. If the powder clumps, pulse in a spice grinder to revive.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Grinding & Mixing
- Cuisine: Indian
Nutrition
- Calories: 5 kcal
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 1 mg
- Fat: 0.1 g
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Fiber: 0.3 g
- Protein: 0.2 g
Keywords: chai powder, homemade chai, Indian spice blend, masala chai, spiced tea