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What is Chai Latte?
Chai latte is an increasingly popular drink worldwide. It combines the rich tradition of chai tea with the creaminess of milk, creating a unique blend of flavors and aromas that is irresistible to many tea lovers.
Chai latte, also known simply as chai latte, is a modern variation of traditional Indian chai tea. The word "chai" in Hindi means "tea," while "latte" refers to the addition of milk. Therefore, chai latte is a blend of spiced tea with milk, sweetened with sugar or some other sweetener.
Origin of Chai Latte
The history of chai tea dates back thousands of years. In ancient India, tea was considered medicine and was used in Ayurvedic tradition to promote health and well-being. Originally, it was made with a combination of spices such as cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and black pepper, mixed with black tea. This blend of spices not only added flavor but was also believed to have healing properties.
Over time, chai tea became a popular beverage in Indian culture and adapted to different regional preferences. Each region had its own version of it, with variations in the spices used and the method of preparation. In some places, milk and sugar were added to mellow the spicy flavor and create a comforting drink.
Today, chai latte has conquered the palates of people all over the world.
Benefits of Chai Latte
In addition to its delicious and comforting flavor, chai latte offers a range of health benefits:
- It is a natural antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. The spices used in chai tea, such as ginger, cinnamon, and cardamom, can help reduce inflammation, strengthen the immune system, and combat oxidative stress.
- The black tea used in chai latte contains caffeine, which can provide an energy boost and improve concentration. However, the amount of caffeine can vary depending on the preparation and tea brands used.
- It can improve digestion. The spices used in chai tea, such as ginger and black pepper, have properties that stimulate digestion and alleviate stomach discomfort. Ginger, in particular, has traditionally been used to relieve nausea and soothe the digestive system.
- It can help maintain a healthy blood sugar balance. Some of the spices used, like cinnamon, have been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and regulate glucose levels in the body. This can be beneficial for people with blood sugar control issues or those at risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
- It may have metabolism-boosting properties. The spices used in chai tea can slightly increase thermogenesis, which means the body burns more calories to produce heat. This can be beneficial for those looking to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight.
- Consuming it promotes relaxation. The comforting aroma and taste of chai tea, combined with the act of slowly enjoying a hot cup, can help reduce stress and promote mental tranquility.
How to Prepare Chai Latte
To enjoy all the aforementioned benefits, it's important to use the highest quality tea, and at Matcha & CO, there are two ideal options.
On one hand, Matcha & CO's Spicy Chai Tea. It's a high-quality organic powdered chai with a slightly spicy flavor and a gentle spiced aroma. It contains a high level of antioxidants that help protect cells from free radical damage. It contributes to improved digestion and weight loss.
On the other hand, Matcha & CO's Cacao Spicy Chai Tea. It has the same properties as the previous one but adds organic cocoa to its ingredients. It also contains a high level of antioxidants that help protect cells from free radical damage. It contributes to improved digestion.
Instructions:
- Add 1 gram of powdered tea to a cup.
- Mix it with 60 milliliters of 80ºC water.
- Stir the mixture with a bamboo whisk or electric frother until you achieve a homogeneous and frothy mixture.
- Add 190 milliliters of milk (you can use cow's milk or plant-based milk according to your preference) or 190 milliliters of water if you prefer traditional tea.
- Sweeten to taste
