What if we told you there’s a chai latte meant for both coffee and tea lovers? That’s right folks, Starbucks secret menu isn’t the only place that knows about this delicious drink. With cold weather fast approaching, we welcome the dirty chai latte with open arms. And no, before you ask there is no actual dirt in this fall favourite! So, what is a dirty chai? Keep reading for the best dirty chai recipe!
A twist on a classic chai tea latte, dirty chai lattes are the perfect warm drink. Not only will you feel warm and cozy, but it will also give you an extra boost of energy. Not to mention making this drink is as easy as pie. Well maybe easier than pie..
Sometimes we get caught up with the word latte (it’s a little intimidating when surrounded by fancy coffee shops). But latte simply means milky, so don’t stress you got this! Not to mention when making this at home you can ditch all of the sugary syrups added at a lot of shops.
The perfection of chai spices and rich coffee will unite tea and coffee drinkers once and for all! Chai time is anytime, and we’ll take ours dirty.
What is a Dirty Chai?
This fall favourite can be prepared in a number of different ways, with its three ingredients standing so strong on their own, it takes some practice to find the perfect blend. Here’s what you need.
Tea
Chai tea is a balanced blend of black tea and Indian spices. In North America, we most commonly use masala chai. A lot of coffee shops and restaurants will use syrups and a lot of sweeteners to make a “chai flavour”. We think it’s best to use the real thing! If you like it sweet, just had some honey or sugar.
Milk
By adding frothed milk to your chai, it helps bring out the sweet and spiciness of the chai. It makes for a creamy smooth drink with loads of flavour. Dairy free? No problem. You can add almond, soy or other non-dairy options to make this drink vegan.
Espresso
Espresso is this drinks cherry on top. The way espresso is prepared makes for a very rich strong coffee, very different from a drip coffee. It is made with very hot water and very high pressure. This method also for a very unique flavour and cup known as espresso.
How to Make a Dirty Chai Latte:
Step one: make your tea.
- Steep your favourite chai for 3-7 minutes depending on personal preference
- If you want any sweetness to your latte now is the time to add it, we like adding a spoonful of honey
Step two: steam your milk
- This can be done while your tea is steeping
- Warm your milk up over the stove to about 150℉
Step three: make it foamy
- Making the perfect foam will be the crown jewel to your already perfect drink
- Method 1: use a plunger foamer for about 30-60 seconds or until you get your desired foaminess.
- Method 2: use an electric frother. Just as effective as the first method, perhaps a little easier.
- Add your foamy milk to your steeped tea
Step four: pour your espresso on top
- Once you have made a shot of espresso pour it over everything.
- Pouring your shot on top of your drink will allow for the tea to envelop all of the rich smoothness of the espresso!
- We recommend using an espresso Moka pot like our Milano. Perfect for making a serving just for one, or for a few of your friends.
Step five: enjoy au natural or top with a sprinkle of cinnamon (or cinnamon sugar) and enjoy!
Health Benefits of Chai
Although we are turning this chai into a dirty latte, let’s not forget what started it all! With chai tea as your base, you are still getting lots of great benefits with all of the flavour as an added bonus. Read some of the many health benefits below.
- Chai tea is full of antioxidants that help keep your heart healthy
- It can help reduce feelings of nausea
- Chai tea promotes weight loss
- Reduces blood sugar levels
- Improves digestion
Read more about the health benefits of chai and its origins here.