The Tea Blog

Opening my mind to Coconut Chai

February 25th, 2008

First time visitors to a ‘real’ tea store are often surprised to find that Chai is not traditionally poured prepared from a concentrate which is highly sweetened.  So we always give a little background about Chai, as a spiced black tea enjoyed in India and surrounding areas with steamed milk.  Many that try authentic chai add little, if any sweetener, so I figure we are doing a good job educating their palette. 

So when I was discovered Coconut chai, I must admit I was a little heisitant.  Would I be messing with a traditional beverage and adding to the confusion?  I learned two things from this venture.  First, there are almost as many recipes for chai, as there are Indian households.  Spices are chosen to taste, and often ground fresh.  Second, a little experimentation can add a new dimension to an old favorite.

The addition of a little coconut seems to give the chai a smoother character, and add a slight natural sweetness.  One other thing I noticed in this tea is that even people that do not normally like coconut do enjoy it when added to the other spices in the tea.

As for me, I have another beverage to enjoy in the morning!

Entry Filed under: Tea