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Tejpatta chai

Serving: 1 Cup

Illustration of tejpatta chai

Tejpatta chai, also known as bay leaf tea, is a beverage made by infusing tejpatta (Indian bay leaf) in hot water. It’s a popular drink in South Asia and is known for its unique, slightly bitter, and earthy flavor. While often enjoyed as a simple tea, it can also be incorporated into more complex chai recipes.

it’s etymology

Tejpatta, or Indian bay leaf (Cinnamomum tamala), is a spice with a distinctive fragrance and flavor. It’s different from the more common bay laurel (Laurus nobilis).

Ingredients

  • Water

    Water

    1/2 cup (125ml)

  • Milk

    Milk

    1 cup (250ml)

  • Bay Leaf

    Bay Leaf

    1

  • Black Tea

    Black Tea

    1 tbsp (tablespoon)

  • Sugar

    Sugar

    1 tbsp (tablespoon or as per taste)

Step-By-Step Guide

Step 1

In a saucepan, bring 1 cup of water to a boil over medium heat.

Step 2

Add the bay leaf to the boiling water and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes to release its distinctive earthy aroma and flavor.

Step 3

Then add in the black tea leaves to the bay leaf-infused water and brew for 2-3 minutes until the tea develops a rich color.

Step 4

Pour in the milk and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, allowing the bay leaf's unique flavor to blend with the creamy milk.

Step 5

Lower the heat and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes for the flavors to meld together and develop depth.

Step 6

Add sugar according to your taste preference and stir well.

Step 7

Continue to simmer for another 2 minutes to ensure all flavors are well integrated.

Step 8

Strain the tea into a cup to remove the bay leaf and tea leaves, and enjoy the aromatic, earthy Tejpatta Chai!

Notes

sweetener :
You can use jaggery or stevia instead of sugar.
bay leaf steeping :
Don't over-steep the bay leaf as it can make the tea overly bitter
milk alternatives :
Semi-skimmed, skimmed, or plant-based milk (almond, oat, or soy) can be used.