Inji Elakki Chai

Serving: 1 Cup

Inji Elakkai Chai is a fragrant and comforting South Indian-style tea made with fresh ginger and cardamom. This chai is not only flavorful but also soothing – ginger adds warmth and spice, while cardamom brings a sweet, floral aroma. It’s a perfect everyday tea, especially loved in Kerala and Tamil Nadu households, where a steaming cup of this chai often starts the morning or accompanies evening snacks.

it’s etymology

The name Inji Elakkai Chai comes from Tamil and Malayalam words: Inji means ginger, and Elakkai means cardamom. This straightforward naming reflects the honest, uncomplicated nature of this traditional tea. Together, Inji Elakkai Chai literally means “Ginger Cardamom Tea”, highlighting its two main ingredients and allowing their aromatic, soothing qualities to shine.

Ingredients

Water

1/2 cup (125ml)

Milk

1 cup (250ml)

Ginger

1/2 inch piece

Cardamom

3 pods (lightly crushed)

Black Tea

1 tbsp (tablespoon)

Sugar

1/2 tbsp (tablespoon or as per taste)

Step-By-Step Guide

Step 1

In a saucepan, bring the water to a boil over medium heat.

Step 2

Add the crushed or grated ginger and boil for 2-3 minutes to release its aroma.

Step 3

Add the lightly crushed cardamom pods and simmer for 2 minutes so the flavors blend.

Step 4

Add the black tea leaves and simmer for 2-3 minutes until the water turns a deep brown.

Step 5

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

Step 6

Stir in sugar (or your choice of sweetener) and simmer for 1-2 minutes.

Step 7

Let the tea bubble gently for another 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 8

Strain into a cup and enjoy your aromatic Ginger Cardamom Tea!

Notes

cardamom preparation :: Lightly crush cardamom using a mortar & pestle for best flavor.
milk alternatives :: Can use semi-skimmed milk.
sweetener :: Jaggery or jaggery powder works well as a traditional alternative to sugar.