In India, chai isn’t just a beverage; it’s a cultural phenomenon that brings people together. From bustling streets to serene hill stations, every corner of India boasts its unique chai culture. Let’s explore some of the diverse types of chai that you can find across this vast land.
1. Gur Gur Chai (Butter Tea):
Originating from the cold terrains of Ladakh, Gur Gur Chai is a robust tea made by churning together tea leaves, salt, and yak butter. It’s a staple among the locals, providing warmth and energy in the harsh mountain climate.
2. Noon Chai:
Hailing from the Kashmir Valley, Noon Chai or Pink Tea is a delicacy made from special green tea leaves, milk, salt, and a pinch of baking soda. Its distinctive pink hue and subtle flavors make it a favorite choice during festivities and gatherings.
3. Amruttulya Chai:
In Maharashtra, especially in Pune, Amruttulya Chai holds a special place. Served in small glass cups, this strong and milky tea is often accompanied by traditional snacks like vada pav or bhajiya.
4. Sulaimani Chai:
From the southern state of Kerala comes Sulaimani Chai, a black tea infused with spices like ginger, cardamom, and cloves. It’s known for its tangy and refreshing taste, often served after meals as a digestive aid.
5. Kesar Chai:
Kesar Chai, infused with the richness of saffron, is a luxurious treat enjoyed across India. This aromatic tea is prepared by steeping saffron strands in hot milk along with tea leaves, creating a golden-hued beverage that’s as visually appealing as it is flavorful.
6. Kashai:
From Mangalore, Kashai is an herbal tea or kadha, a milk-based tea that is made with all the spices in our kitchen. It is said to help boost the immune system and soothe the senses. It is flavored with cumin, peppercorns, coriander, dry ginger, cardamom, nutmeg powders, mulethi, and jaggery. It is known for keeping winter chills a bay.
7. Lebu Cha:
Known popularly in Kolkata, Lebu Cha or Lemon Tea is a zesty twist to the classic chai. It’s prepared by adding freshly squeezed lemon juice to black tea, creating a refreshing and rejuvenating drink perfect for hot summer days.
8. Ronga Saah:
Ronga Saah is a unique tea variety from Assam, known for its vibrant red color and strong flavor. It’s made by brewing black tea leaves with a special variety of wild ginger, giving it a distinct taste that’s both spicy and invigorating.
9. Ukado:
Originating from Gujarat, Ukado is a traditional herbal tea prepared with a blend of spices like turmeric, ginger, cloves, and black pepper. It’s revered for its immune-boosting properties and is often consumed during cold and flu season.
10. Parsi Tea:
Parsi Tea is a cultural amalgamation of Iranian and Indian influences, commonly found in Parsi households. It’s a sweet and milky tea infused with cardamom, often served with buttery biscuits or rusks.
11. Nathdwara Chai:
From the temple town of Nathdwara in Rajasthan comes Nathdwara Chai, a fragrant blend of black tea, milk, and aromatic spices like cloves and cinnamon. It’s a popular beverage among devotees visiting the famous Shrinathji Temple.
Each type of chai in India tells a story of its region’s culture, tradition, and taste preferences. Whether you prefer the robustness of Gur Gur Chai or the delicacy of Kesar Chai, there’s a flavor for every palate in the colorful tapestry of Indian chai culture. So, next time you visit any state in India, don’t forget to indulge in a cup of chai that reflects the essence of its land.