Print

Hare Krishna Masala Chai Recipe

Hare Krishna Chai offered to Krishna in an Indian glass, garnished with a star anise.
Print Recipe

Hare Krishna Masala Chai is a delightful and aromatic beverage, inspired by the principles of bhakti yoga. This unique chai combines freshly roasted coriander seeds with a blend of spices, creating a harmonious and caffeine-free drink that refreshes and revitalizes. In the tradition of Gaudiya Vaishnavism, preparing and offering food and drink to Krishna is an act of love and devotion, known as bhakti. Each cup of this chai is prepared with care, mindfulness, and a pure heart, transforming it into a spiritual offering.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Hare Krishna Chai Masala Powder:

  • 1 tablespoon ginger powder
  • 1 tablespoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon green cardamom
  • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon clove
  • 1 star anise

For the Chai:

  • 1 tablespoon coriander seeds
  • 2 1/2 cups water
  • 1 to 2 teaspoons Hare Krishna chai masala powder
  • 1 tablespoon burnt coriander masala
  • 2 1/2 cups milk
  • 3 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
  • Fresh mint leaves or crushed pistachios for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chai Masala Powder:
    • Combine ginger powder, black pepper, cinnamon, green cardamom, nutmeg, clove, and star anise in a spice grinder or blender.
    • Grind the spices into a fine powder. Store in an airtight container.
  2. Roast and Grind Coriander Seeds:
    • In a fry pan, dry roast whole coriander seeds until partly burnt and the aroma is released.
    • Grind the roasted seeds into a fine powder.
  3. Make the Chai:
    • Heat 2 1/2 cups of water in a saucepan.
    • Add 1 to 2 teaspoons of Hare Krishna chai masala powder. Stir well and let it boil for 2-3 minutes, continuing to stir to infuse the masala flavors.
    • Add 1 tablespoon of burnt coriander masala and boil on medium heat for 5 minutes.
    • Add 2 1/2 cups of milk and let it boil for 5 minutes on medium-low heat until the tea takes on a nice color.
    • Add 3 tablespoons of sugar (adjust to taste) and stir well.
  4. Serve:
    • Strain the chai into a tea glass or cup.
    • Garnish with fresh mint leaves or crushed pistachios if desired.
    • Offer to Krishna and serve with Hare Krishna cookies, biscuits, or a mid-afternoon snack like pakoras or samosas.

Notes

  • Spice Adjustments: You can adjust the amount of spices in the chai masala powder to suit your taste preferences.
  • Serving Tip: Serve the chai hot for the best experience.
  • Variations: Add a touch of saffron for a richer flavor and color. Add tumaric (haldi) to help with inflamation and to add a slightly different taste and richness.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://harekrishnarecipes.com/recipes/beverages/masala-chai-recipe/