New Harvest Travel Journal: India
Latest Discovery: Maharaja Chai Oolong
My day begins outside a crowded train station in Assam. One thing I can’t help but notice throughout my travels in India are the chai wallahs calling out to passersby and the inviting aroma beckoning travelers to their stands. Chai is embedded in the culture of the people here and each vendor takes enormous pride in their own unique blend of bright, bold spices. And in the home of the ancient spice route, there is no lack of amazing fresh spices to choose from. Equally as enjoyable as the tea is the entertaining presentation–many chai wallahs show off their skills by elaborately mixing and pouring the chai cup to cup in mid-air.*
One sip and though thousands of miles away, I’m transported state-side to a cozy fall New England day. For me, the fusion of cinnamon, ginger, pepper, cloves, chicory root, carob, nutmeg, and cardamom are reminiscent of hayrides, pumpkin patches and holiday gingerbread. It’s these traditional chai spices blended with oolong tea that make up the Maharaja Chai Oolong.
This robust blend is bold and well balanced. The ginger and pepper provide a bright, spicy bite and pleasant aftertaste without overwhelming the palate, while the cinnamon and carob offer a natural hint of sweetness. Traditionally, black teas are used in chai blends. However, the unique incorporation of oolong brings with it a smooth, subtly sweet, woodsy flavor.
While Maharaja Chai is delicious on its own, I love to serve it traditionally with the addition of a little milk and sugar (my preference is German Rock Sugar as it sweetens without tainting the natural taste and complexity of this flavor-rich tea). The result? Contrasting sweet and spicy flavors delight the palate and stand up to the smooth, creamy texture of this delectable treat.
Back home, this spicy fusion will now remind me of my exotic tea trek through India. (Though, I think I’ll leave the pouring acrobatics to the chai wallahs!)
Next destination…The Mediterranean!
*See the masterful chai wallahs at work on this fellow traveler and chai lover’s site. Photo Credit: Jenny Kostecki-Shaw and Patrick Shaw