Kattan Chaya
A simple yet robust black tea from Kerala, 'Kattan Chaya' is a staple in South Indian households. This strong, sweet, and often ginger-infused beverage is brewed to perfection, offering a comforting and invigorating experience. It's the perfect way to start your day or enjoy a moment of relaxation.
For 2 servings
3 steps. 5 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Infuse the Water
- b.In a small saucepan, combine the 2 cups of water and the crushed ginger.
- c.Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the water to a rolling boil. This will take about 2-3 minutes.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Brew the Tea
- b.Once the water is boiling vigorously, add the 2 teaspoons of black tea powder and 3 teaspoons of sugar.
- c.Reduce the heat to medium and allow the tea to boil for 1-2 minutes. The color should become a deep, rich reddish-brown. Do not boil for too long, as it can turn bitter.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Strain and Serve
- b.Turn off the heat.
- c.Immediately strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve or a traditional cloth filter into two serving glasses.
- d.Serve hot and enjoy the authentic taste of Kerala's Kattan Chaya.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the most authentic experience, use a strong CTC (Crush, Tear, Curl) dust tea, which is common in South India.
- 2Do not over-boil the tea after adding the powder, as it releases tannins that can make the chaya unpleasantly bitter.
- 3Kattan Chaya is traditionally served quite sweet. Feel free to adjust the sugar quantity to your personal preference.
- 4For a frothy top, 'pull' the tea by pouring it back and forth between two cups from a height. This aerates the tea and cools it slightly.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spiced Kattan
Add one crushed green cardamom pod or a small clove along with the ginger for a warm, spiced flavor.
Lemon KattanLemon Kattan
Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to your cup just before serving for a refreshing twist.
Herbal InfusionHerbal Infusion
Add a stalk of lemongrass or a few fresh mint leaves to the water while boiling for a different aromatic profile.
Sugar FreeSugar-Free
Omit the sugar entirely or use a natural sweetener like jaggery (gur) or a sugar substitute for a healthier version.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Antioxidants
Black tea is a great source of antioxidants, particularly flavonoids, which help combat oxidative stress and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Aids Digestion
The inclusion of fresh ginger helps soothe the digestive system, reduce nausea, and promote healthy digestion.
Provides a Gentle Energy Boost
The natural caffeine in black tea can improve focus and alertness, providing a gentle energy lift without the jitters sometimes associated with coffee.
Supports Heart Health
Regular consumption of black tea has been linked to improved heart health, including potential reductions in blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Frequently asked questions
One cup of Kattan Chaya, made with about 1.5 teaspoons of sugar, contains approximately 24 calories. The calories come almost entirely from the sugar, as black tea and ginger have negligible calories.