A Dirty Chai Latte is a delicious and indulgent coffee beverage that combines the flavors of a traditional chai latte with a shot of espresso. It's perfect for those who love the spicy warmth of chai tea but also crave the boldness of espresso. Here's how to make a Dirty Chai Latte at home:
Ingredients:
- 1 shot of espresso (about 1 oz)
- 1 chai tea bag or 1 tablespoon of loose chai tea
- 1 cup of milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1-2 teaspoons of honey, maple syrup, or sweetener of choice (optional)
- Ground cinnamon or nutmeg, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brew the chai tea: Heat water until just below boiling, then pour it over the chai tea bag or loose chai tea in a mug. Let it steep for 3-5 minutes, depending on how strong you like your chai tea. Remove the tea bag or strain the loose tea leaves and discard.
2. Prepare the espresso: Brew a shot of espresso using an espresso machine or a stovetop espresso maker.
3. Heat the milk: In a small saucepan or using a milk frother, heat the milk until steaming hot. Froth the milk if desired for a creamy texture.
4. Combine the espresso and chai tea: Pour the shot of espresso into the chai tea mug and stir to combine.
5. Add the steamed milk: Pour the steamed milk into the mug with the espresso and chai tea. Stir gently to mix all the flavors together.
6. Sweeten to taste: If desired, add honey, maple syrup, or your preferred sweetener to the Dirty Chai Latte and stir until dissolved.
7. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg on top of the latte for extra flavor and visual appeal. Serve hot and enjoy immediately.
A Dirty Chai Latte is a comforting and flavorful drink that's perfect for cozy mornings or an afternoon pick-me-up. Adjust the sweetness and strength of the chai tea and espresso to suit your taste preferences, and feel free to experiment with different spices and toppings for a personalized touch.