Chai Tea Cold Brew, what it is and how to make it
A fresh, aromatic and spicy way to enjoy tea in summer.
When the warmer weather arrives, we swap hot coffee and steaming teas for lighter, more refreshing drinks. That's where cold brew comes in . This technique isn't just for coffee: you can also make cold brew with tea , and more specifically, with masala chai .
In this article, we'll tell you what cold brew is , how to make cold brew tea , and how to prepare the perfect summer cold brew chai : a cold, aromatic infusion with all the flavor of traditional spices.
What is cold brew?
Cold brew is a gentle, slow way of preparing coffee or tea using cold infusion. Instead of using hot water, cold water is used and steeped for 8 to 24 hours.
As explained by Ineffable Coffee Roasters , cold brew allows for the gradual extraction of soluble compounds, resulting in a smoother, sweeter beverage with less acidity and more body , ideal for hot days.
It also works wonderfully with teas and infusions , allowing us to prepare iced tea naturally and without bitterness. All you need is cold water, time, and your favorite tea.
Is cold brew the same as iced tea?
Although both are enjoyed cold, cold brew and iced tea are not the same. The difference lies in the preparation method:
Iced tea
It's prepared like a regular tea, steeped in hot water. It's then quickly cooled with ice. This process speeds up the extraction and often intensifies the flavor, but it can also release more tannins , resulting in a stronger or slightly bitter beverage.
Cold brew tea
Cold brew, on the other hand, is made directly from the cold. The tea is left to steep in room temperature or chilled water for several hours. The result is a smoother, cleaner infusion with less bitterness and more delicate notes, perfect for those seeking a more natural and lighter flavor.
Ideal teas for preparing cold brew:
Black tea
Green tea
White tea
Rooibos tea
Tea with lemon
Spiced teas like masala chai
How to prepare it:
Add approximately two tablespoons of tea leaves (or three tea bags) to one liter of cold water in a glass jar or bottle with a lid. Stir gently, cover, and let it steep in the refrigerator for 6 to 12 hours, depending on the tea type: green and white teas require less time (about 6-8 hours), while black, rooibos, or chai teas can steep for up to 12 hours without any problem. Once the time has elapsed, strain the tea to remove the leaves or tea bags, and serve it with ice, citrus, fresh fruit, and your favorite sweetener.
At SOLO CHAI , our Original Masala Chai (with Assam black tea) and Rooibos Masala Chai (caffeine-free) blends are perfect for this technique. Spices like ginger, cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves They provide depth , natural sweetness and an enveloping aroma that lasts even when cold.
The result: a refreshing, healthy and spicy drink , ideal for any time of day.
Black tea or rooibos?
Both options work great, but they have their peculiarities:
Chai with black tea
It has a more intense flavor and contains caffeine . It needs to be steeped for 8 to 12 hours. If you miss the recommended time and there's any bitterness, you can easily correct it with ice, fruit, or a little sweetener.
Chai with rooibos
It's smoother, naturally sweeter, and caffeine-free . Perfect for children, pregnant women, or anyone looking for a light drink at any time of day. A cold brew version with lemon and fruit is a summer delight.
Recipe: How to Make Chai Cold Brew
Ingredients:
- 1 liter of cold water
- 2 tablespoons of Original Chai Masala or Rooibos Masala Chai
- Optional: lemon slices, fresh fruit (peach, apricot...), syrup, vegetable drink, ice, or sparkling water
Preparation:
1. Add the cold water and chai mix to a glass jar or bottle.
2. Stir and let it rest in the refrigerator for 8 to 12 hours .
3. Filter with a fine strainer or cloth.
4. Serve chilled. You can add:
- Citrus slices (lemon or lime)
- Summer fruits such as peach or nectarine
-Your favorite sweetener
- Ice
- A touch of sparkling water if you prefer it as a soda
If you're looking for healthier alternatives to industrial sodas, chai cold brew is an ideal way to enjoy a tasty, sugar-free, homemade cold brew . You can make large batches and store them in the refrigerator, ready to serve.
At SOLO CHAI, we select organic ingredients and fresh spices so you can enjoy the authentic taste of chai, both hot and cold. Join the community of those who choose natural , delicious , and lovingly made . Visit our online store at this link: SOLO CHAI. And follow us on social media for more recipes, ideas, and tips.