Happy National Chai Day is celebrated every year on Sepetember 21st to honor the rich cultural heritage and global popularity of chai. It is a refreshing drink that many of us start our day with. We celebrate this day to highlight the importance and love people have for chai. Chai” is a Hindi word that means tea. It is produced in large quantity in India and exported to other countries.
A Taste of India’s Cultural Heritage
Chai has become an integral part of Indian culture and it is sold by street vendors known as “chaiwalas.”. These small vendors play a significant role in making chai a daily ritual for millions across the country. It is made in different forms and flovors. Chai is sweet beverage specially made from milk, spices and sugar.
Most people prefer chai made with cow’s milk, but some also use almond or coconut milk in specific part of the country. Health causaus people drink black, green, tulsi and lemon tea. Spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, pepper and ginger are used to make different flavors.
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Origin of National Chai Day
Creation: National Chai Day was founded by Somrus on September 21, 2018, a company known for its Indian-inspired cream liqueurs, to celebrate chai and its cultural significance.
Purpose: The day is dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the global love for chai, its various recipes and its cultural impact. It helps people learn about the history and traditions associated with chai. It also encourage people to enjoy this beloved drink in all its forms.
Chai in Modern India
Cultural Symbol: Today, chai is much more than just a beverage, it has become a cultural symbol, a gesture of hospitality and a part of daily life for people across India. The day also encourages people to explore different types of chai, such as masala chai, chai latte and iced chai. It also helps them learn about the spices and methods used in its preparation.
Global Influence: The popularity of Indian chai has spread globally, with “chai tea” becoming a popular drink in cafes and homes around the world. Chai is a big part of Indian culture, but National Chai Day shows how popular it is not only in India but all over the world, with many different versions of the drink.
How People Celebrate
Chai Tasting Events: Many cafes and restaurants offer special chai tastings or discounts on chai beverages.
Social Media Campaigns: Enthusiasts and brands share chai recipes, stories, and photos on social media using hashtags like #NationalChaiDay.
Cultural Events: Some cultural organizations host events or workshops focused on the history and preparation of chai.
How to Observe National Chai Day
To celebrate National Chai Day, just gather with your family, friends or colleagues at home or nearby tea stall to enjoy the best sip of chai. You can also visit local tea shops or cafes to try different blends. You can even plan a tea party and share pictures or selfies on social media using the hashtag #NationalChaiDay and #HappyNationalChaiDay.
Indian Chai Recipes
Chai recipes are simple and can be customized to suit your taste by adjusting the amount of tea, milk, and spices. Here are some simple recipes to make chai in Indian style. Enjoy your chai!
1. Basic Masala Chai
Ingredients:
1 cup water
1 cup milk
1-2 teaspoons loose black tea leaves or 1 tea bag
2-3 cardamom pods (crushed)
1 small piece of ginger (grated)
1-2 teaspoons sugar (adjust to taste)
Instructions:
In a saucepan, bring water, crushed cardamom, and grated ginger to a boil.
Add tea leaves or tea bag and simmer for 1-2 minutes.
Add milk and sugar. Stir well and bring to a boil.
Simmer for another 2-3 minutes, then strain into cups.
Serve hot!
2. Classic Indian Chai
Ingredients:
1 cup water
1 cup milk
1-2 teaspoons loose black tea leaves or 1 tea bag
1-2 teaspoons sugar (adjust to taste)
Instructions:
In a saucepan, bring water to a boil.
Add tea leaves and sugar, and simmer for 1-2 minutes.
Pour in the milk and bring to a boil.
Reduce heat and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Strain into cups and enjoy hot.
3. Cardamom and Ginger Chai
Ingredients:
1 cup water
1 cup milk
1-2 teaspoons loose black tea leaves or 1 tea bag
2-3 cardamom pods (crushed)
1 small piece of ginger (crushed)
1-2 teaspoons sugar (adjust to taste)
Instructions:
Boil water with crushed cardamom and ginger in a saucepan.
Add tea leaves and simmer for 1-2 minutes.
Add milk and sugar, and bring to a boil.
Simmer for 2-3 minutes, then strain into cups.
Serve hot and enjoy!
4. Masala Chai with Spices
Ingredients:
1 cup water
1 cup milk
1-2 teaspoons loose black tea leaves or 1 tea bag
1 small cinnamon stick
2-3 cloves
2-3 crushed cardamom pods
1 small piece of ginger (grated)
1-2 teaspoons sugar (adjust to taste)
Instructions:
In a saucepan, bring water to a boil with cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, and ginger.
Add tea leaves and simmer for 1-2 minutes.
Add milk and sugar, then bring to a boil.
Simmer for 2-3 minutes to let the spices infuse.
Strain into cups and enjoy your flavorful masala chai.
5. Tulsi (Holy Basil) Chai
Ingredients:
1 cup water
1 cup milk
1-2 teaspoons loose black tea leaves or 1 tea bag
5-6 fresh tulsi leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried tulsi)
1-2 teaspoons sugar (adjust to taste)
Instructions:
Boil water with tulsi leaves in a saucepan.
Add tea leaves and simmer for 1-2 minutes.
Add milk and sugar, then bring to a boil.
Simmer for 2-3 minutes and strain into cups.
Enjoy your refreshing tulsi chai!