Discover India's Rich Tea Heritage

India stands as one of the world's leading tea producers, offering an incredible variety of tea types and brewing traditions that reflect our diverse culture and landscapes.

Explore Teas

India's Finest Tea Varieties

Darjeeling Tea

Darjeeling Tea

Known as the "Champagne of teas," prized for its light, floral aroma and muscatel flavor.

Brewing Tip: Use water at 90°C (194°F) and steep for 3-4 minutes.

Assam Tea

Assam Tea

Bold, malty flavor with a rich reddish color - perfect for strong morning tea.

Brewing Tip: Use boiling water (100°C/212°F) and steep for 4-5 minutes.

Nilgiri Tea

Nilgiri Tea

Fragrant and brisk, grown in the Blue Mountains with a smooth, well-rounded taste.

Brewing Tip: Use water at 95°C (203°F) and steep for 3 minutes.

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Masala Chai

Spiced tea blend with milk and sugar, a national favorite with countless regional variations.

Brewing Tip: Simmer spices first, then add tea leaves and milk.

Green Tea

Green Tea

Refreshing, packed with antioxidants, with a gentle flavor and light golden color.

Brewing Tip: Use water at 80°C (176°F) and steep for 2-3 minutes.

White Tea

White Tea

Delicate and rare, made from young tea buds with a subtle, sweet flavor profile.

Brewing Tip: Use water at 75°C (167°F) and steep for 4-5 minutes.

Master the Art of Tea Brewing

Water Quality

Always use fresh, filtered water for the best flavor. Avoid reboiling water as it loses oxygen and can make your tea taste flat.

Water Temperature

Different teas require different heat levels. Black teas need boiling water, while delicate white and green teas need cooler temperatures to prevent bitterness.

Steeping Time

Over-steeping can make tea bitter. Follow recommended times: 2-3 minutes for green, 3-5 for black, and 4-6 for herbal infusions.

Milk or No Milk

Strong black teas like Assam pair well with milk. Delicate teas like Darjeeling or green/white teas should be enjoyed without milk to appreciate their subtle flavors.

Sweeteners & Spices

Experiment with honey, sugar, or jaggery. Traditional spices like cardamom, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves can enhance your tea experience.

Traditional vs Modern

Traditional Indian brewing in a saucepan (kadhai) extracts more flavor from spices, while modern teapots offer convenience. Try both methods!

Masala Chai

Perfect Masala Chai Recipe

Ingredients (for 2 cups):

  • 1.5 cups water
  • 1.5 cups whole milk
  • 2 tsp loose Assam tea leaves
  • 2-3 tsp sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 2 green cardamom pods (lightly crushed)
  • 1 small cinnamon stick
  • 3-4 thin slices of fresh ginger
  • 2 cloves (optional)
  • 1 black peppercorn (optional)

Preparation:

  1. In a saucepan, bring water to boil with all spices (cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, pepper).
  2. Reduce heat and simmer for 3-4 minutes to infuse the water with spices.
  3. Add tea leaves and simmer for 1 minute.
  4. Add milk and sugar, bring to a gentle boil (watch carefully to prevent boiling over).
  5. Reduce heat and simmer for 2-3 minutes until the chai turns a rich caramel color.
  6. Strain into cups and serve hot. For authentic experience, pour from height to aerate the chai.

Dive Deeper Into India's Tea Culture

Explore more fascinating tea stories, regional brewing traditions, and the people behind India's beloved chai culture.

Read Tea Stories