Is it time you gave Chiya a try? - A Nepali Masala Tea

Chiya, a Nepali Masala Tea is the warmth of countless shared moments, and the detachment form any kind of stress and nostalgia of whispered conversations. It is the silent companion to both joyous celebrations and heart-wrenching sorrows, lending its comfort to every emotion. With every delicate wisp of steam that rises from its surface, chiya carries with it the essence of tradition. 

Chiya is not only the source of joy and refreshment but it is also the way to do good to our body as it consist of various ayurvedic ingredients in it that help our body sustain healthy.

The health benefits of Chiya Tea might vary depending on the spices used. Firstly, flavonoids found in black tea have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant qualities that promote our health and wellbeing. L-theanine, a special amino acid found only in tea, has beneficial effects on our cardiovascular and metabolic health when paired with caffeine.

Ginger

Ginger is high in gingerol, which provide high anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties to our body. It's also useful to cure headaches and flu symptoms. Ginger can also help with various types of nausea like nausea after any surgeries or morning sickness.

Cardamom

Cardamom is another spice with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits helping to prevent and repair cell damage and also useful for blood pressure. It is also used to cure oral health including bad breath as well as with stomach issues and heal ulcers.

Cinnamon 

Cinnamon has high levels of polyphenols with antioxidant properties that help to reduce inflammation, improve cholesterol and blood pressure as well as key risk factors for heart disease. Some research also suggest that it decrease the amount of sugar in the bloodstream by helping with digestive enzymes that break down carbohydrates to sugar.

Cloves

Cloves, the aromatic flower buds, offer a range of potential health benefits. They are rich in antioxidants, antimicrobial properties and can aid in oral and digestive health. It also helps to regulate the blood sugar, support the immune system, provide relief from pain and respiratory issues.

Star Anise

Star Anise is rich in antioxidants like quercetin and anethole, it also provides protection against cellular damage and supports overall health. This spice has a history of use in traditional remedies for respiratory conditions as it contain anti-inflammatory qualities and it may provide relief for coughs and asthma.

How to make Nepali Masala Tea (Chiya)

Nepali Masala Tea is a staple of Nepali culture, with its warming and comforting aroma entering homes across the country every morning. The varied altitudes of Nepal's mountainous geography create a great growing environment for tea, resulting in a unique and distinctive flavor that is gaining popularity around the world.

The main element in making an authentic cup of Nepali Masala Tea is a spice blend, with each household having their unique variety. The inclusion of Nepali Bay leaf, which is not usually seen in other regions of the world's chai, gives the tea a floral fragrance that is absolutely distinctive.

Ingredients for five large cups

1 liter of milk, preferably whole milk

3 cups (or 500 ml) of water

10 pieces of green cardamom

8 pieces of cloves

5 bay leaves

3 teaspoons of sugar

3 tablespoons normal tea leaves, preferably those made just for milk tea and not green ones

Here is the recipe for Nepali Masala Tea (Chiya)

1. When you first start boiling the water, be sure it's bubbling and not just simmering. This is critical to preventing the tea from becoming overly bitter.

2. Before adding the bay leaf, cardamom, black pepper, and cloves to the boiling water, crush them. This will aid in the release of the spices' tastes and smells.

3. To get the best flavor out of the masala tea (chiya), add the black loose leaf tea after the spices have steeped in the boiling water. After adding the tea, allow it to simmer for a few minutes on medium heat before adding the brown sugar. This will help the tea bloom and bring out its flavors. And at the last add milk to the tea and leave it on low flame for a few minutes until it start to bubble again. 

Whether you're sipping a delicate white tea under the morning sun or warming your soul with a robust Nepali masala tea in a chilly evening, each cup is a reflection of the beauty of simplicity.

 In this aromatic journey from the fragrant spices to the comforting warmth it provides, masala tea has a special place in the hearts of many. But our exploration of the Nepali masala tea is far from over. There are countless variations, flavors, and traditions to discover. In the upcoming posts, we'll explore different Nepali masala tea (chiya), and even share some of the snacks that complement the chiya to the top of the peak.

So, keep your teacups at the ready, as we're just getting started. Thank you for joining us on this aromatic adventure. We'll be back soon with more delightful tea tales. Until then, enjoy your cup of masala tea and enjoy the calm it brings.