Irani Chai is a rich and flavorful milk tea that originated in Iran and later became extremely popular in India. It is especially famous in Irani cafés of Mumbai, Hyderabad, and Pune. This tea is known for its deep color, creamy texture, and strong tea taste.
Unlike regular Indian chai, Irani Chai is not made by boiling everything together. The tea decoction and milk are prepared separately and combined just before serving. This slow and separate cooking process is what gives Irani Chai its unique taste and thickness.
Irani Chai is usually served hot and enjoyed with bun maska, Osmania biscuits, or simple bakery snacks. It is more indulgent than everyday chai and is often had as an evening or café-style tea.
What is Irani Chai?
Irani Chai is a milk-based tea made using strong black tea leaves and full-fat milk. The tea is brewed in water for a longer time to create a concentrated decoction. Milk is simmered separately till it slightly thickens. Sugar is added directly to the milk, giving the tea a smooth and mildly sweet taste.
This method makes Irani Chai richer than regular chai and gives it a café-style finish.
How is Irani Chai different from regular chai?
In regular chai, tea leaves, milk, water, sugar, and spices are boiled together. In Irani Chai, there are no spices added. The focus is on strong tea and creamy milk.
The Irani Chai Recipe uses slow cooking instead of quick boiling. Because of this, the tea tastes smoother and more balanced, without bitterness.
How to make Irani Chai at home?
To make Irani Chai at home, black tea leaves are simmered in water till a strong decoction is ready. Milk is cooked separately on low heat for a longer duration. Sugar is mixed into the milk, and the tea decoction is added while serving. This gives you a perfect cup of Irani Chai without needing any special equipment.
How many cups of Irani Chai can you have in a day?
I recommend having 1 cup of Irani Chai in a day. Since it is made with full-fat milk and sugar, it is best enjoyed in moderation.
IRANI CHAI RECIPE
Ingredients:
- 2 tsp Black Tea Leaves
- 2 cups Water
- 1 cup Full Fat Milk
- 2–3 tsp Sugar (adjust as per taste)
Method:
- Add water to a pan and bring it to a boil.
- Add black tea leaves and reduce the flame.
- Simmer for 5–7 mins till the decoction turns dark and strong.
- Switch off the flame and keep it aside.
- In another pan, add milk and heat it on low flame.
- Let the milk simmer for 10–12 mins, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking.
- Add sugar to the milk and mix well till dissolved.
- Strain the tea decoction into a cup.
- Pour hot sweetened milk over it.
- Mix gently and serve hot.
Additional Tips:
Always use good quality black tea leaves for better flavor.
Do not boil milk on high flame, as slow cooking gives the best texture.
Irani Chai tastes best when served fresh and hot.