Mint Lemongrass Chai
A bright, herbaceous take on traditional spiced tea
Why This Recipe Works
Fresh mint and lemongrass provide an herbaceous brightness that sets this tea apart from spice-heavy blends. Using a ladle to aerate the tea as it boils is a traditional technique that enhances the flavor and creates a light, frothy texture.
Instructions
Combine the sugar and water in a saucepan over high heat and bring to a boil. Stir in the lemongrass and ginger, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for about 3 minutes to fully infuse the water.
Add the tea leaves and mint and continue to simmer for about 3 minutes until the liquid is dark and aromatic.
Pour in the milk and increase the heat to medium-high. While the liquid heats, lift a ladleful of the tea several inches and pour it back into the pan repeatedly to aerate the mixture and develop the flavor.
Allow the tea to boil until it reaches the brim of the pot, then remove it briefly from the heat. Return it to the heat and boil to the brim once more for about 30 seconds, or until the tea is a deep amber color.
Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve into serving mugs and enjoy warm.
🍽️ Complete the Meal
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze this recipe?
Refrigerate for up to 2 days.
What substitutions can I make?
- CTC black tea: 1.5 tbsp loose-leaf black tea
