Miami Chai

Masala means spiced. Admari's masala chai, Miami Chai is more than just spiced tea; it’s an award-winning blend that brings the essence of Miami’s diverse culture and dynamic flavors into every cup. Inspired by the traditional Indian masala chai, this blend incorporates tropical elements like shredded coconut and warm spices such as ginger and cinnamon, all rounded out with sweet notes of vanilla. The robust Indian black tea base perfectly supports these flavors, making Miami Chai not only a delightful beverage but also an amazing addition to cocktails and other culinary creations. Sold as a tea syrup as well, this blend has become a favorite among tea enthusiasts and mixologists alike, celebrated for its versatility and bold, unforgettable taste.

*This is the tea our founder, Adrienne Etkin used to win the US Tea Master's Cup.

Masala Chai, a spiced tea blend that has become synonymous with Indian culture, has a rich and fascinating history that intertwines with the broader narrative of tea in India. The origins of Masala Chai can be traced back thousands of years, well before the introduction of black tea leaves to the Indian subcontinent. According to ancient Ayurvedic texts, a spiced beverage similar to what we now know as Masala Chai was consumed for its healing properties. This concoction, known as "karha," often included a mixture of spices like ginger, cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves, brewed with water and sometimes herbs but without tea leaves.

The story of Masala Chai as we recognize it today, however, began in the 19th century, during British colonial rule. In 1835, the British East India Company began cultivating tea in India to reduce its dependence on Chinese tea. They established large tea plantations in Assam, Darjeeling, and Nilgiri, where they grew and harvested Camellia sinensis var. assamica, a variety of the tea plant native to Assam. The British promoted the consumption of black tea among the Indian population, but it wasn't immediately popular among the locals.

To make the bitter taste of black tea more palatable and align it with traditional Indian flavors, vendors began adding a mixture of spices, milk, and sugar to the brew. This combination not only catered to the local palate but also helped stretch the use of the relatively expensive tea leaves, which were often reused or brewed with more water. The resulting beverage, Masala Chai, quickly gained popularity across India, served in homes, on street corners, and at railway stations.

By the early 20th century, Masala Chai had become deeply embedded in Indian culture, with each region developing its own unique blend of spices, often influenced by local tastes and available ingredients. The drink evolved into more than just a beverage—it became a symbol of hospitality, community, and comfort, enjoyed by people from all walks of life.

Today, Masala Chai is not only a beloved staple in India but has also gained international acclaim. While traditional recipes continue to thrive, the drink has also inspired various adaptations, from Chai lattes in coffee shops to Chai-flavored desserts, reflecting its global influence. Despite these modern variations, the essence of Masala Chai remains rooted in its historical journey—a perfect blend of tradition, culture, and flavor.

• Energizing: The black tea base provides a natural caffeine boost, making it a great choice for an energizing pick-me-up.

• Antioxidant-Rich: The blend is packed with antioxidants from the black tea, promoting overall health and wellness.

• Organic Ingredients: Made with all organic ingredients, ensuring a pure and clean tea experience.

• Digestive Aid: The ginger and cinnamon help soothe digestion and support a healthy stomach.

• Healthy Dessert Substitute: With its sweet and spicy flavor profile, Miami Chai is a delicious and satisfying alternative to sugary desserts.

Preparation Method

1. Hot Preparation:

   • Use 5 grams of tea per 8oz of 205°F (96°C) water.

   • Steep for 5 minutes.

   • Enjoy as is or add milk, honey or your sweetener of choice to enhance the natural sweetness.

2. Hot to Cool Preparation:

   • Steep 5 grams of tea per 8oz of 205°F (96°C) water for 5 minutes.

   • Re-infuse the same tea for a second time (6 minutes) to make a larger quantity.

   • Combine infusions in a pitcher, add sweetener if desired, and refrigerate to cool.

3. Hot to Ice Preparation:

   • Use 5 grams of tea per 4oz of water.

   • Steep for standard time (about 5 minutes).

   • Pour over ice to dilute and cool without losing flavor.

   • Re-infuse leaves 2-3 times to maximize the amount.

Masala Chai (Spiced Tea) is a traditional Indian mixed spice tea blend, best enjoyed with full-fat milk or a rich milk alternative. The fat content in the milk helps bind with the tannins in the tea, smoothing out the brew and creating a round, creamy cup. This process reduces the astringency of the tannins, resulting in a perfectly balanced and flavorful tea. Below is our favorite method to prepare this beloved beverage.

Boiling Tea in Milk

Ingredients:

• 5 grams of Miami Chai

• 240 ml (8 ounces) of full-fat milk or a rich milk alternative

Instructions:

1. Boil Milk: In a saucepan, bring 240 ml (8 ounces) of full-fat milk to a gentle boil.

2. Add Chai: Once the milk begins to boil, add 5 grams of Miami Chai.

3. Simmer: Reduce the heat and let the chai simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse deeply. For a stronger brew, simmer for up to 10 minutes.

4. Sweeten: Add sweetener to taste, such as sugar, honey, or jaggery, and continue to simmer for an additional 2 to 3 minutes.

5. Strain: Remove the saucepan from heat and strain the chai into a cup using a fine mesh strainer or tea filter.

6. Serve: Serve hot, optionally garnished with a pinch of cinnamon, cardamom or rose petals.

7. Enjoy: Savor the creamy and rich flavors of your traditional Masala Chai.