Recently there’s been a lot of hype about this particular beverage – and for good reason. It’s delicious! But, what exactly is it?

A dirty chai latte is an invigorating beverage that combines the rich flavors of a traditional chai with the creamy comfort of a latte. It typically consists of a fragrant blend of black tea paired with a medley of warm spices like cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and cloves, which infuse the drink with a spicy, aromatic kick.

What makes it “dirty“ is the addition of a shot of espresso, introducing a bold, caffeine-infused element that enhances the overall flavor profile. The resulting concoction is a harmonious marriage of robust coffee notes and the soothing, spiced sweetness of chai, creating an energizing drink that’s perfect for those who crave a little extra zing in their latte.

As a lover of all things chai AND latte, I make dirty chai lattes very, very frequently. I’ve played around with many different ingredients and ratios, and this is my absolute favorite blend. Let’s get to the recipe!

How to Make a Dirty Chai Latte

There are three basic steps when it comes to making the perfect dirty chai latte.

1. Brew the espresso. You can do so however you like – via a moka pot, french press, AeroPress, or simply by making a super strong cup of joe. Whatever you prefer!
2. Make the masala chai. This is where the real magic happens. A homeade spice blend is the key to an outstanding masala chai. The stuff you get in concentrate just doesn’t even come close to doing the beverage justice.
3. Froth the milk. This is the last step! There are a few different ways you can do this, which I’ll go into detail about below.

Health Benefits of Masala Chai

Before we get into the ins-and-outs of making a stellar dirty chai latte, I want to briefly discuss one of the reasons I drink them so often. It’s the masala chai! The flavorful blend of tea, spices, and herbs is both delicious and healthy! It offers several health benefits, such as:

1. Antioxidant Properties: Black tea, the base of masala chai, is rich in antioxidants called polyphenols. These compounds help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body, reducing oxidative stress and lowering the risk of chronic diseases.
2. Digestive Aid: Ginger, one of the key ingredients in masala chai, is known for its digestive properties. It can help alleviate indigestion, bloating, and nausea. Ginger also has anti-inflammatory effects, which can soothe the digestive tract.
3. Anti-inflammatory Effects: Both ginger and cinnamon have natural anti-inflammatory properties. Chronic inflammation in the body is linked to various diseases, including heart disease and cancer. Consuming anti-inflammatory ingredients can help reduce the risk of these conditions.
4. Better Heart Health: Black tea has been associated with a reduced risk of heart disease. The antioxidants in tea, combined with the potential cholesterol-lowering effects of certain spices like cardamom, can contribute to a healthier cardiovascular system.
5. Regulated Blood Sugar Levels: Some studies suggest that cinnamon, a common ingredient in masala chai, may help lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity, making it beneficial for people with diabetes or those at risk of developing the condition.
6. Improved Focus and Mental Clarity: The moderate caffeine content in black tea can enhance alertness and concentration without the jittery effects often associated with excessive caffeine consumption.

I drink masala chai almost as often as I drink matcha (everyday). It is a lovely way to start the day, and the added shot of espresso in a dirty chai latte really kicks things off in a great way.

Making the Masala Chai Blend

As I mentioned above, this is what makes or breaks a dirty chai latte. Making a homemade spice blend for masala chai offers several advantages over using pre-packaged chai spice mixes and concentrates. Here are some compelling reasons why you should consider making your own blend:

1. Customization: Creating your own spice blend allows you to tailor the flavors to your preference. You just love cinnamon? Add extra. Can’t stand star anise? Don’t add any!
2. Freshness: When you make your own spice blend, you have control over the freshness of the spices. Whole spices retain their flavor longer than pre-ground spices, which can lose their potency over time.
3. Quality: You can choose high-quality spices and herbs for your blend, ensuring that you’re using the best ingredients available. This can significantly enhance the flavor of your masala chai.
4. No Additives or Preservatives: Homemade spice blends are free of additives, preservatives, or artificial flavors that can be present in commercial blends. This makes your chai healthier and more natural.
5. Cost-Effective: Buying whole spices in bulk and creating your own blend can be more cost-effective in the long run compared to purchasing pre-packaged chai spice mixes. Especially if you drink them as often as I do!
6. Versatility: Your homemade spice blend can be used beyond just chai. You can use it to flavor other dishes, such as desserts, oatmeal, or savory dishes, to add a unique twist to your cooking.

Masala chai blends can include a wide variety of different ingredients – it’s entirely dependent on the cook. This recipe uses several spices that are commonly found in traditional masala chai. I opt for whole spices over ground spices, but both can be used in this recipe – whichever you prefer! Here’s what you’ll need:

• Black tea
• Ginger
• Cinnamon
• Cardamom
• Cloves
• Black pepper

Once you have the blend ready, making the masala chai is super easy. All you have to do is simmer the spices in hot water for few minutes, add the black tea, and then simmer for a few more.

Expert Milk Frothing

Frothing milk is a crucial step in making lattes, as it creates the creamy and velvety texture that makes a latte so enjoyable. There are several methods you can use to froth milk for lattes, depending on the equipment you have available. Here are some of the common ways:

1. Steam Wand: This method involves the use of – you guessed it – a steam wand. It’s a super easy process and the machines aren’t too expensive, either, which is why it’s many peoples preferred method of frothing milk.
2. Handheld Milk Frother: This is how I do it! These are battery operated devices that are super affordable, portable, and convenient. You just heat your milk, place the frother in it and let it do its magic.
3. French Press: This is a classic – you just heat your milk, pour it in a French press, and then vigorously plunge the press up and down for 30 seconds, and you’re good to go.
4. Shaking in a Jar: This one is a bit more unorthodox, but what works works! Just heat your milk, put it in a glass jar and shake that bad boy for about 30 seconds until the milk froths.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Start by grating your ginger. The peel can be removed, but does not need to be. Next, take your cardamom pods and, using your hands, lightly crush them.

Add the ginger, cardamom, whole cloves, cinnamon stick and whole peppercorns to a small pot with water. Bring the mixture to a simmer, and simmer gently for 5-7 minutes covered, and turn off the heat. Add the loose leaf black tea to the pot, but make sure not to boil the tea, as this will result in a bitter chai. Let it steep for at least 5 minutes.

As the tea is steeping, begin making your espresso. Once done, add the espresso to one large mug or two small mugs. After the black tea has finished steeping, strain the chai into the mug(s) using a fine mesh strainer.

Remove the leftover spices from the pot, and then add the honey and whole milk. Heat until the milk has reached 150°F, and measure the temperature with a thermometer if you have one on hand. If not, heat until the milk has small bubbles forming on the perimeter of the pan, but is not yet simmering. Use a steam wand, handheld frother, French press, or whatever method your prefer to foam the milk.

Pour the milk and foam evenly between the mug(s). Sprinkle with additional chai spices and serve!

Did you make this recipe and like it? Be sure to leave a comment below! I’d love to hear what you have to say 🙂