In Indian culture, 'Masala' means 'a blend of spices', and 'chai' simply means 'tea.' So, Masala Chai is literally 'spiced tea.' Our take on this treasured Indian drink combines premium Ceylon black tea with warming cinnamon, cardamom and ginger. Warm and inviting fragrance, zesty flavor (without being too hot or spicy) and invigorating, aromatic finish.
Historically, tea in India was viewed as herbal medicine, rather than as a beverage for taste. Some chai spice blends still in current use are derived from Ayurvedic medical texts. Popular spices include anise, cinnamon, clove, cardamom, peppercorn, and ginger. Traditional preparation actually calls for the spices, milk and leaves to be simmered over sustained heat, rather than steeped in preheated water (like regular tea). In India, chai is served in little clay cups from chai carts. After enjoying your tea, the cups are shattered on the ground and allowed to compost - an earth-friendly alternative to the paper and plastic cups popular in the U.S.