Tasting Notes

This caffeine free version of Masala chai features prominent notes of warming ginger, spicy peppercorn, citrusy cardamom, sweet cinnamon, and a subtle hint of clove. The result is a comforting, slightly spicy, moderately sweet cup of tea.

About this Tea

Masala Chai is a blend of black tea and aromatic spices originating from the Indian subcontinent, which has gained worldwide popularity.

This loose leaf Mandela Masala Chai substitutes black tea with rooibos and honeybush, but delivers the familiar chai experience.

Steep Directions

A good starting place for this tea is to steep 2 tsp (4 g) of tea per 8 oz (226 g) of 205F water for 4-5 minutes.  This will produce a milder cup.

To turn up the volume on the flavors, we recommend a more concentrated ratio of 2 tsp (4 g) of tea per 4 oz (113 g) of 205F water for 4-5 minutes.  If you prefer even stronger flavors, experiment with increasing the water temperature, the steep time, and decreasing the brew ratio.  It is not uncommon to see steeping recommendations for red chai tea of 212F water for 10 minutes.

Each bag contains two ounces of tea or 18 tsp.

Chai Concentrate Instructions

We recommend starting with a ratio of 2 tsp (4 g) of tea per 4 oz (113 g) of 205F water for 10-15 minutes.  Strain and add sugar to taste while tea is hot.  Refrigerate.  When you’re ready to drink it, mix the concentrate 50/50 with milk and either pour over ice and enjoy or heat to 180F and enjoy.

Ingredients: Rooibos (Red Tea), Honeybush, Cinnamon, Ginger, Cardamom Pods, Cloves, Peppercorns.  Caffeine free.