Millions worldwide are replacing their morning coffee with chai tea. Ever since news of this tea’s health benefits broke out, the demand for the spicy beverage has been on the rise. Chai tea is unique in that it includes both milk and sweeteners, which goes against the common advice of nutritionists. Many people have their own versions of chai tea, and with practice, you can create your own too.
What is Chai Tea Made of?
Although chai tea leaves are now available in stores, the name actually refers to the combination of tea with spices, milk and sweeteners. The tea used is often green, black or oolong tea. Spices vary according to individual preferences, but the most commonly used are cinnamon, cardamom, ginger and peppercorns.
Milk is also a traditional ingredient of chai tea, and often used generously. You can create healthy versions of this tea with skim or soy milk. When it comes to sweeteners, honey is always best.
What is Chai Tea’s Nutritional Information?
Green, black and oolong tea are well known for their high antioxidant content. These are nutrients that cleanse and boost the body’s overall function. The spices added to chai tea like cinnamon and ginger also contain important chemicals that aid digestion, bowel movements and disease prevention. Milk is a reliable source of calcium necessary for bone growth and strength.
What is Chai Tea’s Effect on Your Health?
The health benefits of chai tea are too many to mention. Cinnamon alone fights against infections, cures upset stomachs, reduces symptoms of bowel conditions and can prevent cancers. Ginger is famous for its healing properties and is often a listed ingredient on medicines. Cardamom is an effective natural laxative. Not only does it rid the body of waste, it can also reduce inflammation and prevent blood clots,
There is a misconception that adding a sweetener can cancel out all the health benefits of other ingredients. This could be true if you use table sugar, but not necessarily with honey. Honey has benefits of its own and can complement the taste of chai tea. When choosing milk, use the low-fat, skim or goat variety. These milks have more calcium and fewer calories to help you manage your weight.
How to Make Chai Tea
Ingredients
- 2 black or oolong tea bags
- 2 ½ cups water
- 2 pieces cinnamon bark
- ½ teaspoon of cardamom seeds
- ½ teaspoon ginger
- 125 ml honey
- 1 ½ cup milk
Instructions
- Wrap cinnamon, cardamom and ginger in cheese cloth with a string so you can pull it in and out.
- In a pot, bring water to a low boil and place the spice cheese cloth inside. Let spices simmer in water for 15 minutes and pull out it out.
- Remove the pot from heat and add tea leaves. Allow leaves to sit in water for 2 minutes before pulling them out. Strain the water and stir in milk and honey. Serve and enjoy.
Nutrition
Chai tea is a soothing, nutritious beverage you can make in your kitchen any time. In just one cup, you can receive a healthy dose of antioxidants and minerals. Incorporate this chai tea to your diet to experience a range of health benefits.
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