Thanks for walking Jackson Heights with Jim

Make Jim's masala chai at home.

You tasted it on the walk. Now here is the simple home version, plus a quick way to share your Chai Bhai experience while the memory is still fresh.

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The recipe

Jim's homemade masala chai.

This is built for a normal kitchen. Nothing fancy. Just tea, milk, spice, heat, and patience.

Masala Chai Base

Enough for about 2 cups. Adjust sugar and spice depending on how strong you like it.

Tea base

2 heaping tbsp Assam CTC black tea
1 to 2 tsp sugar, optional

Spices

2 to 3 cardamom pods, crushed
2 cloves
1 small cinnamon stick
2 peppercorns
Small pinch ginger powder or fresh ginger

Liquid

1 cup water
1 cup whole milk or creamy oat milk

Pro tip: Toast the spices for 20 to 30 seconds before adding water. It wakes up the aroma fast.

Quick Chai Break

Best when you want the cup without making a whole ritual out of it.

1
Bring water, tea, sugar, and spices to a low boil for 2 to 3 minutes.
2
Add milk and return to a gentle boil.
3
Simmer 3 to 5 minutes until the color deepens.
4
Strain into cups and drink it hot.

Street Chai Break

Best when you want it stronger, creamier, and closer to what you tasted with Jim.

1
Boil water, tea, sugar, and spices for 4 to 5 minutes.
2
Add milk and let it rise. Lower heat before it spills.
3
Repeat the rise 2 or 3 times to thicken the flavor.
4
Simmer 2 more minutes, strain, and serve.

One small favor

Enjoyed the walk with Jim?

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Watch Jim make it

See the Instagram version.

Jim already has a short video showing how he makes the chai. Watch it on Instagram, then come back to the recipe when you make your own cup.

Watch Jim Make Chai