Masala Chai: Learn, Brew and Enjoy Authentic Indian Chai
Masala chai is black tea simmered with milk and whole spices — not the same thing as “chai tea” (which just repeats the Hindi word for tea) or a generic “masala tea.” It's a specific, spiced way of making tea that's part of daily life across India, and it's where our own family's story starts too.
Learn to Brew It
Our full guide to making rich, authentic masala chai at home \u2014 technique, tips and troubleshooting.
Read the brewing guide \u2192Buy the Spice Blend
Our family spice blend, balanced so you can brew authentic masala chai without measuring out individual spices yourself.
See the spice blend \u2192Learn With Us
A hands-on chai workshop is part of our future plans, alongside our existing cooking classes.
Explore cooking classes \u2192Why Mumbai Mix
Family business
Mumbai Mix is run by our own family — not a brand, a real mother-and-daughters kitchen.
Years of experience
Years spent serving authentic Indian street food from our own market stall, before Mumbai Mix moved online.
Traditional methods
Recipes and techniques passed down through the family, not adapted from somewhere else.
The same family behind every Mumbai Mix recipe. Meet the family
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between chai and masala chai?
“Chai” simply means tea in Hindi — masala chai specifically refers to tea simmered with milk and a blend of whole spices, which is what most people outside India actually mean when they say “chai.”
Is “chai tea” the same as masala chai?
Usually, yes in practice — “chai tea” is a common Western phrase for the same spiced, milky tea, even though it technically repeats the word “tea” twice.
Can I make masala chai without a spice blend?
Yes — you can simmer whole spices individually, though balancing them takes some trial and error. Our brewing guide covers the method either way.
Do you sell a ready-made spice blend?
Yes — our Masala Chai Spice Blend is coming soon to the shop.