Introduction to Irani Chai Recipe
The charm of Hyderabad’s old Irani cafés lies not just in their rustic atmosphere, but also in their iconic Irani Chai Recipe. This tea is no ordinary cup – it is rich, creamy, and deeply flavorful, thanks to its unique method of preparation. Unlike regular tea, Irani chai is slow-brewed, with a strong decoction of Assam tea leaves infused with spices, then blended with thick full-cream milk and malai (fresh cream).
Pairing it with Osmania biscuits or bun maska completes the experience, transporting you straight to the bustling Irani cafés of Hyderabad. Whether you enjoy it on a rainy day, winter evening, or as a special family-time drink, Irani chai is the ultimate comfort beverage.
Ingredients for Irani Chai Recipe (Serves 2–3)
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Water – 2 cups
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Full cream milk – 2 cups (for richness)
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Assam tea powder – 3 to 4 tsp (strong brew recommended)
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Sugar – 3 to 4 tsp (adjust to taste)
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Fresh cream / malai – 2 tbsp (for authentic creamy flavor)
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Green cardamom – 3 to 4 pods (lightly crushed)
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Cloves – 2 (optional)
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Cinnamon stick – 1 small piece
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Ginger – ½ inch (optional, lightly crushed)
Step-by-Step Preparation of Irani Chai Recipe
Step 1 – Make Strong Tea Decoction
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In a saucepan, add water and bring to a boil.
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Add tea powder, crushed cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, and ginger.
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Let it simmer on low flame for 8–10 minutes until dark and aromatic.
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Strain and keep aside.
Step 2 – Prepare the Creamy Milk Base
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In another pan, boil milk on low flame.
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Allow it to simmer for a few minutes until slightly thick.
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Stir in sugar and malai for a rich, café-style texture.
Step 3 – Blend Together
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Pour the strong tea decoction into the milk mixture.
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Simmer for 2–3 minutes so that the flavors blend beautifully.
Step 4 – Serve Café-Style
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Pour from a slight height into cups to create froth.
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Serve hot with Osmania biscuits, rusk, or bun maska.
🌟 Pro Tips for Authentic Irani Chai
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Use full-fat milk for rich texture.
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Make a strong decoction – this is the secret to authentic flavor.
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Always simmer slowly; never rush the cooking process.
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Add malai or fresh cream for the signature Hyderabadi touch.
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Strain carefully to remove tea leaves and spices.
💡 Usage Ideas
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Evening tea with pakoras, samosas, or biscuits.
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Morning family gatherings and festive breakfasts.
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Comfort drink on rainy or winter days.
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Served in kulhads (clay cups) for a rustic café-style experience.
📦 Storage Tips
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Store tea decoction separately in the fridge for up to 1 day.
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Always prepare the milk mixture fresh for best flavor.
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If storing leftover chai, reheat gently on low flame. Avoid hard boiling.
Variations of Irani Chai Recipe
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Saffron Irani Chai – Add saffron strands while boiling milk for a royal flavor.
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Nutty Irani Chai – Garnish with pistachios or almonds.
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Masala Twist – Add nutmeg or a pinch of pepper for extra spice.
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Rose Flavored Chai – Add rose water for a floral aroma.
Serving Suggestions
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Traditional: With Osmania biscuits or bun maska.
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Modern: Pair with cookies, cakes, or muffins.
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Authentic Café Style: Serve in small glasses or clay kulhads.
Health Benefits of Irani Chai
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Boosts Energy: Strong Assam tea gives an instant refresh.
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Rich in Antioxidants: Cardamom, ginger, and cinnamon aid digestion.
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Comfort Drink: Warm, creamy chai soothes the senses.
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Bone Health: Full cream milk provides calcium and protein.
FAQs – Irani Chai Recipe
Q1: Can I make Irani Chai without malai?
Yes, but malai gives it the authentic creamy touch. You can substitute with fresh cream.
Q2: Which tea is best for Irani Chai?
Strong Assam tea powder or CTC tea is ideal.
Q3: Can I skip the spices?
Yes, but adding cardamom and cinnamon enhances the café-style flavor.
Q4: Is Irani Chai very sweet?
Traditionally, it is slightly on the sweeter side, but you can adjust sugar to taste.
Final Thoughts
This Irani Chai Recipe brings the essence of Hyderabad right into your kitchen. Creamy, flavorful, and soul-soothing, it’s more than just tea – it’s an experience of culture and tradition. Whether you enjoy it with Osmania biscuits, bun maska, or simply on its own, Irani chai is a perfect blend of strength and richness that makes tea-time truly special.
