Chai Tea
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Chai tea, or simply 'chai,' is a fragrant, spiced tea beverage originating from India, where 'chai' is the Hindi word for tea. It is typically made by brewing black tea with a mixture of aromatic spices like cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves, and is traditionally served with milk and a sweetener such as sugar or honey.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
Chai tea is generally low in protein and fat, with its calories coming primarily from carbohydrates if sweetened and made with milk. A typical 8-ounce cup of sweetened, milk-based chai contains approximately 70-120 calories and provides small amounts of antioxidants and minerals from the spices.
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, chai is more than a drink in India; it's a staple of hospitality and social connection, often offered to guests. Nutritionally, the spices used, like ginger and cinnamon, are celebrated in traditional medicine for their potential anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits.