Yes, milk is almost always added to masala chai.
Masala chai, often simply referred to as "chai tea" in many Western countries, is traditionally brewed with milk. While variations exist, the typical preparation involves simmering black tea with a blend of aromatic spices and then adding milk to create a creamy and flavorful beverage. The milk is integral to the character of chai, contributing to its rich texture and helping to balance the strong spices.
Here's a breakdown of why milk is a key component:
-
Traditional Preparation: Masala chai recipes almost universally include milk. It's not an optional addition, but a fundamental ingredient.
-
Flavor Enhancement: The milk complements the spices, softening their intensity and creating a harmonious blend of flavors. It rounds out the sharpness of ginger, cardamom, cloves, and other common chai spices.
-
Texture: Milk gives chai its characteristic creamy and smooth texture, which is part of its appeal.
-
Sweetness: While sugar or other sweeteners are often added, the lactose in milk contributes a subtle sweetness.
Therefore, while there might be personal preferences for enjoying black tea with spices in different ways, the traditional and widely accepted method for making and consuming masala chai includes the addition of milk.
