**Chai masala** is a blend of aromatic spices used to flavor traditional Indian tea, known as masala chai. This spiced tea is a popular beverage in India and has gained worldwide recognition for its unique and comforting taste. ### Common Ingredients The specific spices in chai masala can vary, but a typical blend includes: - **Cardamom** - **Cinnamon** - **Cloves** - **Ginger** - **Black pepper** - **Nutmeg** - **Fennel seeds** ### Preparation To make masala chai, the chai masala is added to a mixture of black tea, milk, water, and sugar. The spices are simmered with the tea to infuse their flavors, creating a warm and fragrant drink. ### Benefits Chai masala not only enhances the flavor of tea but also offers several health benefits: - **Digestive aid**: Spices like ginger and fennel help with digestion. - **Anti-inflammatory**: Ingredients like ginger and cloves have anti-inflammatory properties. - **Antioxidant-rich**: Many of the spices used are rich in antioxidants, which can help protect the body from damage by free radicals.