Butter Chai

Serving: 1 Cup

Butter Chai, also known as “Po Cha” or “Tibetan Tea,” is a unique and nourishing beverage that has sustained the people of Tibet and the Himalayan regions for over a thousand years. This rich, creamy tea is unlike any other chai experience – it’s salty rather than sweet, with a luxurious, buttery texture that provides essential energy and warmth in the harsh mountain climate.This hearty drink is deeply woven into Tibetan culture and daily life, where it’s consumed multiple times throughout the day. Traditionally served to guests as a gesture of hospitality, refusing butter tea is considered impolite in Tibetan society. The tea has also become beloved in neighboring regions including Ladakh, Bhutan, Nepal, and parts of northern India, where high-altitude communities have embraced its warming properties.

it’s etymology

The Tibetan name “Po Cha” literally translates to “Tibetan tea,” where “Po” refers to Tibet and “Cha” means tea. In some regions, it’s called “Suja” or “Gur Gur Cha” – the latter referring to the churning sound made during preparation. Ladakhi communities know it as “Gurgur Chai,” while Sherpa communities call it “Tibetan Butter Tea.” The preparation method of churning tea with butter has ancient roots in nomadic culture, where yak butter was readily available and provided essential fats for survival in extreme altitudes.

Ingredients

Step-By-Step Guide

Step 1

Bring 1 cup of water to a boil in a saucepan.

Step 2

Add 2 tbsp of salted butter and let it melt completely into the boiling water.

Step 3

Add 3 lightly crushed cardamom pods and boil for another 2 minutes.

Step 4

Then add in the black tea leaves and boil it for 3-4 minutes.

Step 5

Pour in the milk and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Step 6

Add 1/8 tsp salt and let it simmer for 3–4 minutes.

Step 7

Stir in 2 tbsp sugar (or to taste) until dissolved.

Step 8

Remove from heat, strain into a serving cup, garnish with saffron strands, and enjoy your warm, creamy Butter Chai.

Notes

milk alternatives :

You can use Semi-Skimmed, Skimmed or Oats (plant-based).

sweetener :

You can use honey as an alternative to sugar.

Crushing Cardamom :

Lightly crush the cardamom pods using a mortar and pestle or with a small blender.

If Using Tea Bags :

For 1/2 tbsp: 2 tea bags, for 1 tbsp: 3 tea bags, for 2 tbsp: 5 tea bags.