Looking For A Winning Cocktail For Your Next Party? Try The Masala Chai-Tini
If it comes to a mixologist's verdict based sheerly on innovation and taste, the Masala Chai-Tini is a clear winner. This cocktail is loved by all. While it’s incredibly hard to pinpoint exactly where and by whom this cocktail was discovered, we can safely assume that we have someone in India to thank for this brilliant idea! Nobody loves masala chai more than Indians, right?
This cocktail is an upgrade on a terrific blend of a traditional recipe – masala chai, with a contemporary twist – a martini. So, if you’re hosting a party sometime in the future and want to serve your guests something traditional yet exotic, look no further. You’ve found exactly what you’re looking for! As a bonus, we will also tell you what to pair this drink with!
What goes into making a Masala Chai-Tini?
First, you’ll need to brew the perfect cup of masala chai. For this, add about two cups of water, one cup of milk, two tablespoons of loose-leaf tea (please do not use fruity or green tea. English Breakfast, Darjeeling or Assam are fine), some cardamom pods, cinnamon, and grated ginger, 2 tablespoons of jaggery for sweetness. First, combine the water and milk and allow it to come to a boil. Then add the tea leaves, crush the cardamom and cinnamon before adding it in, and then add the jaggery and mix. Once the liquid has cooled a bit and become a gorgeous shade of orange, strain it and allow it to chill.
For this recipe that makes two standard drinks, you’ll need ice cubes, 30 ml masala chai, 15 ml honey syrup, 10 ml vanilla syrup, 50 ml Smirnoff No. 21, and a smoked cinnamon stick for the garnish.
Now, for the cocktail, add some ice in a shaker. Then pour in the chai, vodka, honey syrup and vanilla. Shake really well. Strain the gorgeous, almost amber liquid into a martini glass and garnish with a smoked cinnamon stick.
If one were to ask what makes this cocktail such a hit, the answer would be pretty simple: the peppery vodka, the flavourful chai and the milkiness of vanilla, paired with the sweet and satiating honey, complement each other. Plus, there are all the beloved spices in the masala chai itself. So, even if you’re just starting out your journey of becoming a mixologist, this is a delicious cocktail to set the ball rolling.
What to pair with a glass of Masala Chai-Tini?
Speaking of pairings, this drink goes well with a dish that is naturally spicy because this chilled cocktail will cut down the spice from the dish. If you intend to serve the Masala Chai-Tini as a welcome drink, pair it with some aloo samosas, tamarind chutney or pudina chutney. Or, you can also make a samosa chaat with mint, tamarind chutney and yoghurt. You can also serve this with tandoori chicken, malai tikkas or tandoori paneer.
If you’re a little sceptical about this cocktail, don’t be! This martini is not only popular in India, but it’s a rage in the US – a country that loves experimenting – the UK which loves its tea, and Canada where cities like Toronto and Vancouver boast of a very diverse population. This drink will surely be a super-hit among your guests, but having said that, make sure you drink responsibly and in moderation.
