Life in Lahore - Chai

Australian Photographer in Pakistan

Instagram @gaynor.shaw.photography

While walking around inside the old walled city of Lahore I came across a man making chai.  Chai is very important to Pakistanis and everyone has their own, best ever, recipe.  I have included a recipe for chai below.  Traditionally it is made with full fat milk and Pakistanis love their chai with lots of sugar but you can try it without sugar and any milk you prefer.  However, don’t skip the ladling part as this enhances the flavour and makes it a little frothy.  Enjoy!

 Pakistani Chai for four people

 Ingredients

4 tsp black tea

2 ½ cups water

2 cups full fat milk

4 cardamon pods

Lots of sugar to taste

 Method

1.     Bring the water up to boil then add tea leaves and cardamon pods, reduce heat to medium and simmer for a couple of minutes.

2.     Add milk and bring back up to a boil, take off the heat and ladle the tea up high to allow lots of air – see photo above for how to ladle and pour the tea from on high.  Repeat this step a couple of times to develop the flavour.  Do not take your eyes off the tea as it can quickly boil over.

3.     Strain the tea into cups.

4.     Add sugar to taste.