Chai Masala, or Masala Chai as we know it, has gained the title of the second-best non-alcoholic beverage of 2023, according to online culinary guide TasteAtlas. It was ranked twice and came in first place on the list of the “Best Foods and Drinks in India,” demonstrating the importance of Chai Masala in Indian food and culture.
The culinary guide posted a description describing the beverage along with the announcement of the win on Instagram. “Chai masala is an aromatic beverage originating from India. It is made with a combination of sweetened black tea and milk that is spiced with a masala mix—which typically includes cardamom, ground ginger, cloves, cinnamon, and black peppercorns.”
“In the 19th century, the Chinese had a monopoly on the tea trade, and the British looked for other markets that would fulfill the high demand for black tea—which was a firm European favorite,” the post added.
After Mexican Aguas Frescas and Hong Kong-style Milk Tea, Chai Masala came in the third place globally.
