Spilling the tea. Chai not?

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     Masala Chai dates back to India 5,000-9,000 years ago. Some people believe it has a Thai origin. Since then, masala chai has been developed during the 20th century. Its development is aimed at increasing its availability, cost, and variety, but did you know that masala chai (spiced tea) was used for royalty and herbal medicine? Chai can now be enjoyed all over the world with many different variations. For example, in India, it is made from ginger and spices. The Chai commonly known in the U.S comes as a syrup concentrate, which is added to milk for a latte variant. Different areas in the world use a variety of spices and even the tea leaves themselves. As a result, masala chai has a variety of different ways to be made. Even the milk varies. In India, it is common to use whole milk, but around the world, almond, soy, oat, and skim milk may be used instead. 

Even the name masala chai evolved as popularity rose in the US. Somehow, the name “masala chai”, which means spiced chai, evolved to be called chai tea” in popular coffee shops in the US. The funny translation of “chai tea” is actually “tea tea”. Some places will advertise a “dirty chai,” which adds a shot of espresso to the drink. Look out for different variations throughout the seasons. You may see pumpkin, apple, and other varieties of chai this fall season. I definitely think that Masala chai is the perfect spiced, cozy fall drink. Try it because chai not?


AB 


https://www.researchgate.net/publication/274463295_Making_tea_in_India_Chai_capitalism_culture

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