Dear Oliver,
People often come to me dreaming of a perfect cup of fall tea. So, I always
ask, do you like black tea, ginger root, cinnamon chips, cardamom, and
black peppercorn?
Since that evokes such a strong spicy feel, I often get a resounding—“Yes,
that sounds perfect for fall.” I then highly recommend Oliver Pluff’s Masala Chai, which is literally "mixed spice tea"…masala is spice and chai is tea.
As the Oliver Pluff website describes, this blend “originated in India, but
has become a favorite in tea and coffee houses worldwide.” Chai is on the
menu everywhere it seems and is often paired with the word “latte” for a
chai latte or chai tea latte.
Chai is also sometimes called "spiced black tea.” True, Masala Chai is a spicy and strong black tea blend—but it is in no way overpowering. Reading the list of spices, including ginger and pepper, it is easy to see why it is called spicy, but the addition of milk and sugar along with the other spice notes somehow smooths it all out and creates the perfect combination for a fall beverage that is easy to brew at home.
As with most teas, it can be served hot or cold. In September, iced chai
might certainly be the ticket—but as we head deeper into fall, a good hot
cup of chai will fit the bill in most homes around the country.
Oliver Pluff’s Masala Chai comes loose leaf or sealed in tea bags, both
available in various sizes. And, importantly, the teabags are always Oliver’s
non-GMO material, all natural (no glue or plastics), plant-based product
that is fully biodegradable.
Here is a quick recipe for brewing Masala Chai at home:
Heat equal parts milk and water
Add Masala Chai loose or bags
Simmer until the liquid turns brown
Add white sugar, brown sugar, or honey to taste
And, my personal recommendation, curl up with a good book or share with
family and friends—drinking a cup of Masala Chai is worth indulging in
some special moments.
