How to make a dirty chai at home

What is a dirty chai you may be asking?

A dirty chai is when you add a shot of espresso to a chai latte. This shot of bitter coffee blends beautifully with the chai spices, and adds an extra buzz of caffeine to chai blends that already contain black tea. However you can also make this with chai spices that do not contain black tea. It is up to personal preference.

This delicious concoction feels like a lovely healthy treat due to the rich aromatic spices including Nutmeg, Cinnamon, Ginger, Cardamom, Clove, Star Anise, Black Pepper, and sometimes Fennel seeds, Licorice root or Anise.

There are THREE components to a dirty chai. The Chai Tea. The Frothed Milk. The Shot of Espresso. When these three are combined the magic happens.

Method:

Add one to two tablespoons (per serving) of your favourite chai mix (Masala Chai or Raw Sticky Chai are great options) to a heatproof jug or pot and add enough hot water to just cover the spices. Let this steep for a couple of minutes.

While the Chai is steeping, prepare your shot of espresso (one shot per serve) into mugs.

Milk Preparation Options:

• Stove top method: Add one to two cups (per serving) of milk or milk alternative to the jug or pot of chai and stir over a low heat until simmering.
• Steam Wand method: Use this to carefully heat and froth the chai mix in your jug or pot until desired temperature is reached.
• Alternative methods: use a French press, hand frother or whisk to desired frothiness after heating on the stove.

Carefully strain your chai milk mix through a fine mesh strainer directly into your coffee mug and espresso shot.

Top with cinnamon or nutmeg.

Drizzle with honey or sweetener alternatives if desired.

For a summery twist, add ice to enjoy an Iced Dirty Chai!