The process detailed herein describes creating a concentrated chai beverage base using commercially available tea bags. This method involves steeping tea bags in a reduced amount of water compared to a standard serving, resulting in a potent infusion. Subsequently, spices are incorporated to enhance the flavor profile, and a sweetener may be added according to preference. The concentrated mixture can then be combined with milk or water to create a chai latte or other chai-based drinks. For example, steeping 6 chai tea bags in 1 cup of water, along with spices, and then mixing the resulting concentrate with 3 cups of milk will produce a beverage more intensely flavored than using one tea bag per cup of milk.
Producing a concentrated chai mixture offers several advantages. It provides a time-efficient means to prepare chai, particularly beneficial in settings requiring multiple servings. The concentrate allows for precise control over the final drink’s strength and sweetness. Moreover, it extends the shelf life of the chai base compared to a pre-made drink, as it can be refrigerated and diluted as needed. Historically, concentrating flavors through infusion and reduction has been a common practice in food preservation and beverage preparation, enabling efficient storage and transport of ingredients.