What is the Difference Between Chai and Tea?

The main difference between chai and tea is that chai contains spices and herbs, while tea does not. Chai, which originated in India, is a beverage made by boiling black tea in water or milk along with a mixture of spices such as cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, pepper, and cloves. In India, the term "chai" means tea, and most Indians drink tea boiled with milk and sugar, which is why the word has become synonymous with milk tea.

On the other hand, tea is a beverage made by pouring boiling water into the fresh leaves of Camellia sinensis. Tea can be enjoyed plain or with the addition of milk and sweeteners, but it does not typically contain spices.

There are several variations of chai, such as:

• Masala Chai: Chai tea with milk and a hint of spices like cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon.
• Adrak Chai: Chai with the addition of ginger.
• Saunf wali Chai: Chai flavored with fennel seeds.

In summary, the primary difference between chai and tea is the presence of spices in chai, while tea is typically consumed without spices.

Comparative Table: Chai vs Tea

The main difference between chai and tea is that chai contains spices and herbs, while tea does not. Here is a comparison table highlighting the differences between chai and tea:

In summary, chai is a spiced and herbal tea beverage that originated in India, while tea is a more general term referring to beverages made by steeping the leaves of Camellia sinensis in hot water. The key distinguishing factor between the two is the presence of spices and herbs in chai, which sets it apart from regular tea.