Tea is more than just a beverage in India—it’s a daily ritual. From morning freshness to evening relaxation, countless people enjoy their cup of chai multiple times a day. While some prefer it light and mildly sweet, others like it strong and sugary. But did you know the taste of tea doesn’t just depend on tea leaves or sugar, but also on the type of milk used? Whether you make it with raw milk or cooked milk can completely change the flavor, texture, and color of your tea.

Cooked vs. Raw Milk in Tea

In most Indian households, tea is usually made with boiled (cooked) milk. Packaged milk, which is already pasteurized, is often boiled again at home before use, and many times diluted with water. This double cooking process affects its richness and spoils its natural texture, leading to thinner, less flavorful tea.

On the other hand, when pasteurized packaged milk is used without re-boiling, it retains its natural thickness. Such milk adds a rich texture and pleasant flavor to the tea. Even if you prefer boiled milk for safety reasons, avoiding excess dilution with water makes the tea much creamier and tastier.

What’s the Correct Way to Brew Tea?

Though every household has its own method, experts suggest there’s a scientifically correct way to prepare tea. According to the British Standards Institution (BSI), tea should be prepared in two separate vessels—one for boiling milk and one for brewing tea leaves in water. Take equal quantities of milk and water. Once the water is hot, add tea leaves and a little sugar, letting it brew properly. Add spices like ginger, cloves, or cardamom if you prefer.

Finally, mix in the hot milk, strain, and serve. Importantly, milk and tea should not be boiled together for too long, as it alters the taste and reduces the richness.

Varieties of Tea Around the World

Apart from the classic Indian chai, there are many other varieties of tea—black tea, green tea, oolong tea, herbal tea, and matcha, each with its own preparation style and health benefits. Green tea aids in weight management, black tea is rich in antioxidants that support heart health, while matcha is considered a superfood packed with nutrition.

In short, whether you prefer raw or cooked milk, the key to a perfect cup of tea lies in how you balance its ingredients and brewing method.