Today we get fully into the Masala Chai, a way (in fact a receipt) to enjoy tea very typical in India, as well as in other countries in the region. In fact, “Chai” means “tea” in India and “Masala” is translated as “mixed spices”. So today we enjoy a lot of very different flavors to which we are used to in our Tea Time.
We enjoy three different types of Chai, each one with a different base of tea or infusion. Exactly we talk about Sencha Chai (black chai tea), Shanghai Chai (green chai tea) and Rooibos Chai. These three varieties keep some ingredients in common, such as pepper, although they have their peculiarities. By clicking on the name of each tea you will see the specific ingredients of each variety.
Let’s go describing them at once, so that you can get an idea all together to compare and differentiate them. So we will refer to them as Green Chai, Black Chai or Rooibos Chai.
We start with the initial flavor without having infused yet, the first impression on the nose. Fully spicy in the case of Chai Rooibos, not rare if we notice that Rooibos is an inffluenciable and its natural aroma is not as present as in the case of green tea or black tea. A strong scent in the case of Green Chai, in this case the typical spicy is added a floral touch. Of course, the densest of the three flavor is found in the Black Chai. In this particular case we come a sweeter flavor, which stands cocoa with spices.
We prepare the respective infusions, respecting the time based on the main ingredient (green tea, black tea or Rooibos). All three have a similar color, rather dark reds. The fact that there are common ingredients in its recipes contributes to this fact. At this point the spicy aroma fills the room, signal that we are at “Chai Time”.
At the moment of truth, each has its own character. As far as taste is concerned, the more reminiscent of the original recipe is undoubtedly the Rooibos Chai. Also has the most spicy flavor of all three. The black Chai is the softest, balanced by star anise and cocoa. These ingredients make it also the nicest of the three. And the one with the strongest flavor is green Chai. It also leaves lingering aftertaste. In this case fennel, included on its recipe, contributes on that way.
We are facing a comparative, not a competition. Personal oppinion has to be considered too. Black Chai is a good choice for begginers , due to be the smoothest and best balanced. For those who are already initiated, Rooibos Chai recipe will not disappoint them, and less if it is prepared with soy milk. And Green Chai would be the choice for those who like strong flavors.
In conclusion, the Masala Chai is very different with a very strong flavor and spicy aroma on all its different varieties. Highly recommended when weather is gettig colder and to prevent colds, and can be taken either with water or milk.
If you are looking for where to buy tea chai in Barcelona, we remind you that you have all these varieties of chai tea available in our tea shop in Barcelona, as well as in our tea shop online www.freshchinesetea.com
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