How to Make Ginger Tea with Milk (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Ginger Tea with Milk, known as 'Adrak Wali Chai', is a beloved Indian beverage enjoyed across the country, especially during monsoons and chilly mornings. Its roots trace back to households from North India to the southern states, where families gather over steaming cups of chai and snacks. The blend of robust black tea leaves, fresh ginger, and creamy milk creates a comforting drink that’s both invigorating and soothing. The warming notes of ginger are celebrated in Ayurveda for their digestion-aiding and immunity-boosting properties, making this tea not just a treat for taste buds but also a staple for wellness. This authentic Indian ginger tea recipe is crafted to be health-conscious, using minimal sugar and low-fat milk for a lighter calorie profile. The spicy kick of ginger balances the mild sweetness, while the milk adds a rich, smooth texture without excessive fat. Perfect for breakfast or a midday snack, Adrak Chai is a cultural experience, often enjoyed with friends and family, paired with biscuits or savory snacks. Its aroma and flavor evoke nostalgia and comfort, making it an ideal choice for anyone seeking a taste of true Indian hospitality.
Ingredients
- •1 cup (250 ml) Water (fresh, filtered)
- •1 cup (250 ml) Low-fat milk (toned or skimmed)
- •1-inch piece Fresh ginger (peeled and grated)
- •2 teaspoons Black tea leaves (Assam or Darjeeling chai patti)
- •1 Cardamom pod (lightly crushed)
- •1-2 teaspoons Sugar (adjust to taste or use stevia for lower calories)
- •1 pinch Black pepper (optional, for extra warmth)
- •2-3 Tulsi leaves (optional, for herbal notes)
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Pour water into a saucepan and bring to a boil over medium heat
Pour water into a saucepan and bring to a boil over medium heat.
Step 2 · Add grated ginger and crushed cardamom pod to the boiling water
Add grated ginger and crushed cardamom pod to the boiling water.
Step 3 · Add black tea leaves and tulsi leaves if using
Add black tea leaves and tulsi leaves if using. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the color deepens and aroma develops.
Step 4 · Pour in the low-fat milk and stir gently
Pour in the low-fat milk and stir gently. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle boil.
Step 5 · Add sugar or stevia to taste
Add sugar or stevia to taste. Sprinkle a pinch of black pepper if desired. Simmer for 2 more minutes.
Step 6 · Strain the tea into cups using a fine mesh strainer
Strain the tea into cups using a fine mesh strainer, discarding the solids.
Step 7 · Garnish with an extra tulsi leaf or a sprinkle of ground ginger if ...
Garnish with an extra tulsi leaf or a sprinkle of ground ginger if desired. Enjoy immediately.
Why this recipe is healthy
This tea is a healthy choice due to its combination of immunity-boosting ginger, antioxidant-rich tea, and low-fat dairy. The use of minimal sugar and optional natural sweeteners helps manage calorie intake, supporting weight loss and diabetes-friendly diets. It’s naturally vegetarian and can be made vegan by substituting dairy milk with plant-based alternatives.
A note on tradition
Ginger tea with milk is a cultural staple in Indian households, especially in the northern states like Uttar Pradesh and Punjab but enjoyed pan-India. It’s traditionally served to guests as a gesture of hospitality and warmth, often accompanied by small snacks. Chai time is an important part of daily life, providing a moment of relaxation and connection. The use of ginger and tulsi is rooted in Ayurveda, emphasizing the beverage’s healthful qualities.