Straight from the stovetop, for a traditional Masala Chai experience. Put a fresh twist on the spiced goodness of Indian Chai by serving it over ice on hot days. If you’re a purist at heart, you can enjoy your chai in its natural state. However, for a truly traditional treat, add your preferred milk and then either jaggery, sugar, or your favourite alternative sweetener to the brew. This delectable combination creates a silky-smooth experience that lifts the flavour of the spices to new heights.

Street chai is traditionally served in glass chutes, and if you’re in the north or east, clay cups. The latter are usually broken and refired each day, which probably isn’t practical in your home! Thankfully, you can impress guests in the traditional India way by serving chai to family and friends in your finest china or favourite teacups. In winter, Masala Chai’s warming energy can be made even cosier by serving it in that one special mug you love most.

While chai is a treat on its own, it pairs wonderfully with the famous street foods of India. Look for spiced crispy snack mixes like Bombay mix and masal bhel (puffed rice mix) in your local Indian grocer. Home-made favourites include deep-fried samosas and pakora. Chai is rarely enjoyed with sweets in India, but the nation is famous for delights such as fudge-like burfee, sugar-soaked deep-fried dough spirals, jalebi, and gulab jamun (sugar-soaked, fried dough-balls), all of which are a heavenly accompaniment for tea. If you can’t find any of these traditional treats, Masala Chai is divine with Parley-G bikkies (which you may find in your local Indian grocer) or your favourite tea time snack.

Masala Chai sets the rhythm of life in India. No matter the time or season, chai wallahs are always ready to share the magic of tea with you. While the locals enjoy chai all day through, evenings are only for those who love a late-night buzz.