Kora Chaha
A strong, clear black tea from eastern India, brewed with tea leaves, water and a little sugar. It is light on the stomach, quick to make, and perfect when you want a simple cup without milk.
For 4 servings
- prep · ~2 min
Measure the tea ingredients.
Measure the water, tea leaves, and sugar so everything is ready before you start boiling.
- boil · ~4 min
Boil the water.
Pour the water into a saucepan and bring it to a full boil over medium-high heat.
- simmer · ~4 min
Brew the tea.
1.Add the tea leaves to the boiling water.2.Add the sugar and stir once.3.Lower the heat and let the tea simmer for 3 to 4 minutes until it turns deep amber.TIPDo not overboil the tea for too long or it can turn harsh and overly bitter. - serve · ~1 min
Strain and serve the kora chaha.
Strain the hot tea into cups and serve right away while it is fresh and strong.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Keep the simmer to 3 to 4 minutes; once the tea turns deep amber, strain it before the tannins get harsh.
- 2Stir the sugar only once after adding it so the leaves can brew undisturbed and the liquor stays clear.
- 3Use a fine tea strainer to catch small black tea particles and keep the cup clean and smooth.
- 4If using a stronger Assam-style leaf, start with a slightly shorter simmer because it can turn bitter quickly.
- 5Warm the cups with a little hot water before pouring so the kora chaha stays hot longer.
- 6This tea is best made fresh; if holding briefly, keep it covered off the heat and strain just before serving.
Adapt it for your goals.
Low-sugar
Reduce the sugar or skip it entirely if you prefer a sharper, more traditional black tea taste.
jaggeryJaggery
Replace sugar with a little grated jaggery for a deeper, earthy sweetness that pairs well with strong tea.
gingerGinger
Add a few lightly crushed ginger slices during simmering for warmth and a more soothing cup.
spicedSpiced
Simmer with lightly crushed cardamom or a small clove for a fragrant version without adding milk.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Light and Dairy-Free
Made only with water, tea leaves, and sugar, this tea is easy to serve when you want a simple milk-free hot drink.
Hydrating Hot Beverage
Because water is the main ingredient, it offers a warming way to take in fluids, especially when you want something light.
Tea Polyphenols
Black tea naturally contains plant compounds that contribute flavor and are commonly valued in tea-based drinks.
Frequently asked questions
Look for a deep amber color after about 3 to 4 minutes of simmering; strain it then for a strong but balanced cup.
