For many Indians, chai is not just a beverage; it’s an emotion; it’s a habit. It is an inextricable thread of the vibrant tapestry of Indian culture. As ubiquitously seen on screen in movies as it is in books by Indian authors (see, Jerry Pinto’s Em and the Big Hoom). It’s so versatile that it pairs just as well with a samosa as it does with a cigarette. But have you ever wondered how this no-frills, cheap, and comforting beverage became synonymous with India? Well, join us as we spill the tea that starts more than 2,000 years ago!
History Of Tea In India: Was Tea Always Here?
The story begins in the dense greenery and the thick foliage of the forests in Assam circa 700 BCE. Long before the arrival of the British Empire, local Assamese tribes like the Singpho and the Khamti used a bitter plant we now know as tea for a number of purposes.
Primarily, its use was medicinal. It was even used in a vegetable dish and was sauteed with garlic and oil. Fast forward to 1823, and the East India Company is well on its way to colonizing India. An official of the company was posted in Assam.
There, a chief of the Singpho tribe showed him the native Assamica plant. This changed everything in the trading world. Pretty soon, forests were cleared out to make way for massive tea plantations. Thus began the large-scale cultivation of tea in India.
Why Did The British Favor Indian Tea?
Although the British world had known of tea before, they only knew the kind that China exported. Once tea was discovered in India, it became an immediate favorite of the British, and, for the longest time, only the British could enjoy Indian tea.
It was only during the Great Depression of the 1930s that the country sought to offload its surplus in the Indian domestic market.
Breaking The Chinese Monopoly
At the time, this country had a complete monopoly on the tea market, and the British were reliant on it. The British had long been wanting to stop relying on the Chinese for their tea. The discovery in Assam gave them exactly what they were looking for. It helped them get a cheaper, more independent way of procuring tea.
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When And How Was Masala Chai Invented?
The roots of Masala Chai can be found in the Kadhas and Kashayams that Indians have been brewing since time immemorial. When Indians found the British tea too thin, local vendors who sold tea on trains started adding various different spices and more milk to it.
Owing to the train, this beverage quickly spread across India with stalls (tapris) sprouting up near stations and spreading further into regions. These tapris became an egalitarian hangout spot where anyone from any caste could come and enjoy a cup of tea. And that’s how Masala Chai became what it is today.
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What Is International Tea Day About?
Every year, May 21 is celebrated as International Tea Day around the world as an ode to this special beverage. It is also recognized by the United Nations (UN). The very first International Tea Day was observed on December 15, 2005. However, in the UN General Assembly, May 21 was officially recognized as the day dedicated to this beverage.
The observance is generally led by the Food and Agriculture Organization, and it is geared towards promoting sustainable production of tea, supporting tea farmers, celebrating its cultural heritage, and spreading awareness about fair trade. This year’s theme is fostering growth and inclusion.
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How To Make The Perfect Cup Of Masala Chai?
There is no one “correct” way of making tea, and that, precisely, is the beauty of this beverage. Everyone has a “perfect” way of making tea, and it can be bespoke to a person’s preferences. Having said this, here is a foolproof way of making a good cup of Masala chai.
- Crush the ginger and add it to boiling water.
- Along with a few cardamom pods and cloves, add whatever spices you generally prefer in your tea.
- Let the spices simmer for a few minutes.
- Add the tea and let it cook on high heat for a while.
- Add your preferred sweetener, or you can skip it entirely.
- Add milk and let it simmer for another few minutes.
Your perfect cup of Masala chai is ready!
Also Read: India Meets Matcha: The Green Tea Revolution Taking Over Indians!
Tips For Making Chai
- Always add the sweetener towards the end of the process so that it doesn’t hinder the infusion of other spices.
- The fresher the spices, the better tasting your tea.
- Always add the spices in proportion to the tea. Don’t let the spices mask the flavor of the tea itself.
- Don’t rush the process; let the tea simmer for a good amount of time.
- If you like milky tea, make sure you add full-fat milk for maximum creaminess.
Summing Up
Thus, the fascinating tale of tea comes to an end. It is remarkable how this single plant has been responsible for so much that has happened in history. From a humble medicinal plant in the forests of Assam to the highly sought-after beverage, it has surely come a long way!
FAQs
Where Did Tea Come From In India?
It was always there, but the Britishers introduced large-scale cultivation.
Why Do Indians Call It Chai?
It is a derivation of the Chinese word for tea, which is ‘Cha’.
How Many Types Of Tea Are There?
While there are six main types of tea – White, Black, Yellow, Green, Oolong, and Post-Fermented or pu-erh tea– there are more than 1,500 cultivars of tea.
Does Chai Have Any Health Benefits?
Yes, depending on how it’s made, it can aid in digestion, is good for heart health, reduces inflammation, improves focus, and much more.
