Nepali Chai
From €8.00Brewing Tips
Quantity of tea leaves: 2 gram
Temperature of water: 95°
Infusion time: 5 minutes
Maximum number of infusions: 2 times
To fully experience the rich and complex flavours of Nepali Chai, begin by heating water to 95°C, the ideal temperature to unlock its multifaceted notes. If brewing Western style, use about 2 grams of tea leaves per 250 ml of water in your teapot or infuser, allowing ample space for the leaves to unfurl and release their essence. Pour the hot water over the leaves and steep for 5 minutes.
As you enjoy your first cup of Nepali Chai, take a moment to savour the authentic taste of masala chai, or “chiya,” as it’s known in Nepal. For subsequent infusions, maintain the water temperature at 95-100°C to enjoy up to two additional brews.
For a traditional masala chai experience, bring water to a boil on the stove and add your Nepali Chai leaves. Let the tea simmer gently for a few minutes to fully extract the flavours. Next, add milk and return the mixture to a gentle boil, allowing the tea and milk to blend harmoniously. Sweeten to taste with your preferred sweetener—sugar, honey, or jaggery—before straining into your cup. This method brings out the bold, spiced character of the chai, immersing you in the comforting warmth of Nepalese tea culture.
Read more about how to brew a delicious cup of tea.
Tasting Profile
Nepali Chai presents a sensory journey that is both warming and invigorating, perfect for lovers of spicy masala chai.
The dry blend greets you with an inviting aroma, dominated by warm spices such as ginger and black cardamom, complemented by the subtle earthiness of the organic black tea leaves. Hints of cinnamon leaf and black pepper add layers of complexity, creating a bouquet that is rich, spicy, and slightly smoky.
Upon brewing, the infusion reveals a deep amber liquor, releasing a harmonious blend of spicy and sweet notes. The aroma evolves to include hints of gingerbread and toasted spices, reminiscent of cosy mornings and home-baked treats.
The first sip of Nepali Chai offers a robust and full-bodied experience, where the boldness of the black tea is beautifully balanced by the warmth of the spices. Ginger provides a lively kick that awakens the palate, while cinnamon leaf and black cardamom impart a gentle sweetness and depth, adding a soothing character to the brew.
While Nepali Chai forgoes some traditional Indian masala chai spices like green cardamom, cloves, and star anise, it offers a unique and simpler perspective on chai, delivering a beautifully balanced and aromatic cup that reflects the rustic elegance of Nepalese tea culture.
Storage
Properly storing the Nepali Chai tea leaves and herbs is crucial to retain its freshness and flavor. The key is to protect them from the elements that can compromise their quality: air, heat, light, and moisture.
Read more about how to store loose-leaf tea.





