When a shot of espresso is added to spiced tea, it takes the shape of dirty chai.
Photo Credit: istockphoto
One of the major reasons behind the soaring popularity of dirty chai is the strong caffeine content. Dirty chai contains both tea and coffee that can make it a powerful and effective energy booster. For individuals who feel regular coffee is too strong and tea mild, the combination offers perfect balance.
Dirty chai is gaining popularity among caffeine lovers. It is a fusion drink that contains traditional spiced tea with a shot of coffee, particularly espresso. The strange blend brings together strong, rich aroma of coffee and warm, aromatic spices of tea. The unique combination creates a beverage that is comforting and energising.
Dirty chai is combination of masala chai and espresso. Masala chai is a highly popular and one of the most popular drink in several Indian households. Masala chai is made by brewing tea with milk along with several popular spices like cardamom, ginger, cloves, and cinnamon. When a shot of espresso is added to spiced tea, it takes the shape of dirty chai.
It creates a layered flavour profile which is slightly sweet, spicy, creamy, and strong. There are some varieties of dirty chai namely iced dirty chai, double-shot versions for an additional caffeine boost, and vegan dirty chai prepared with plant-based milk.
Provides Double Dose Of Caffeine: One of the major reasons behind the soaring popularity of dirty chai is the strong caffeine content. Dirty chai contains both tea and coffee that can make it a powerful and effective energy booster. For individuals who feel regular coffee is too strong and tea mild, the combination offers perfect balance.
Offers Unique Combination of Flavours: The fusion of coffee and spices of tea can create a flavor that stands out from regular drinks. The bitterness of espresso gets softened by creamy milk and sweetners of tea while spices add the much-needed warmth and comfort. It makes the beverage appealing for those who love to experiment with different flavours.
Offers Customisable Options: The yet another reason for the surging popularity of dirty chai is its versatility. It allows you to adjust the sweetness, spices, milk type, and coffee strength as per your taste and preference. Whether you love it hot or cold, strong or mild, dirty chai can be catered to suit your taste.
It can be part of a balanced lifestyle provided it is consumed in moderation. It contains essential antioxidants from tea and coffee that can be beneficial for the health. To improve the benefits, you can opt for low-fat milk or reduce sugar intake. The presence of powerful spices like ginger and cinnamon can offer antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that can bring down oxidative damage.
The combination of ginger and cinnamon can enhance digestion, improve metabolism, stabilize blood sugar levels, and reduce symptoms of cold, menstrual cramps, and congestion.
It is worth mentioning here that dirty chai contains more caffeine that regular coffee and tea, so it may not suitable for all. Excessive caffeine intake can cause sleeplessness, restlessness, and increased heart rate. Moderation will always remain a key when it comes to consumption of dirty chai if you are sensitive to caffeine. Whether you are a chai lover or coffee fan, dirty chai provides a delicious way to enjoy both in a single cup.
Meanwhile, in order to increase the health benefits you can opt for black tea and black coffee.
Black tea undergoes a longer oxidation procedure than regular tea thus giving it dark appearance and more strong taste. Black tea offers 47 to 90 mg of caffeine per cup thus making it an energy boosting beverage. It is rich in polyphenols that may include theaflavins and thearubigins that can support your heart health and fight oxidative stress.
Recently, Dr Saurabh Sethi, a gastroenterologist and hepatologist with 25 years of experience, trained at AIIMS, Harvard, and Stanford University, highlighted some of the benefits and side-effects of black tea on his Instagram channel @doctor.sethi. 1
In the video he asked, Is black tea a good breakfast drink? The answer is yes, with food. “Avoid on empty stomach. It is gentler than coffee for many due to less caffeine.”
Is it good for fatty liver? Likely yes, it is linked with better insulin sensitivity and metabolic health, added Dr Sethi.
Does It Spike Blood Sugar? No, it does not.
Does it reduce post meal sugar spikes? Yes, modestly.
Is it good for belly fat or weight loss? Indirectly, yes. It helps with appetite control and insulin sensitivity.
Does It help with gut health? Yes, Polyphenols reach the colon and feed beneficial gut bacteria.
Is it a prebiotic? Functionally yes,
Can raise cholesterol? No, it does not raise cholesterol like unfiltered coffee can.
Does It lower stress hormones? Yes, regular intake is linked to a lower cortisol.
Linked to cancer protection? Yes, it is linked to lower liver and colorectal cancer risk.
Does it affect iron absorption? Yes. Drink it between meals if your iron is low.
Best way to drink it? Either black or with a splash of milk. Avoid sugar and sugary syrups in tea.
How much to drink? For most people, one to four cups a day is generally well tolerated, emphasised Dr Sethi.
Dr Sethi also listed some of the key benefits of black coffee. Dr. Saurabh Sethi took to his Instagram account and highlighted the health advantages of sipping black coffee. “I am a board-certified gastroenterologist and here are science-backed benefits of black coffee,” he wrote in his social media post. 2
1. Helps In Protecting Liver: As per Dr Sethi, sipping black coffee has been “linked with a lower risk of fatty liver, fibrosis and cirrhosis.”. When you opt for moderate consumption of the beverage, it helps in bringing down the risk of liver disease that may include some specific cancer. It also helps people with fatty liver disease.
2. Helps In Reducing Liver Cancer Risk: The doctor added that black coffee can lower liver cancer risk and added, “large studies worldwide have shown how reduced hepatocellular carcinoma risk.”
3. Protects Brain: When you consume black coffee regularly it has been linked with “reduced Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s risk.” It is worth mentioning that caffeine enhances alertness, cognitive function, and concentration. The drink helps in boosting dopamine levels and boosts the mood as well.
4. Supports Blood Sugar Control: Drinking black coffee can support blood sugar control as it “improves insulin sensitivity and there is less type 2 diabetes risk,” added Dr Sethi.
5. Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Power: The doctor claimed that the black coffee is full of antioxidants that aids in fighting free radicals and brings down the risk of specific diseases. "Polyphenols reduce oxidative stress and may calm inflammation,” he asserted.
FAQs
How does dirty chai differ from regular masala chai or coffee?
Dirty chai is a fusion drink that combines traditional spiced masala chai with a shot of espresso coffee. Unlike regular masala chai, which is tea brewed with spices and milk, dirty chai adds the rich, bold flavor and caffeine kick of espresso. This creates a layered beverage that is creamy, spicy, slightly sweet, and stronger in caffeine than either drink alone.
Can I customize dirty chai to suit my taste preferences?
Yes, dirty chai is highly versatile and can be customized to your liking. You can adjust the sweetness, spice levels, type of milk (such as plant-based options for a vegan version), and coffee strength. It can be served hot or iced, and you can also opt for a double shot of espresso for extra caffeine.
Is dirty chai a healthy option compared to regular coffee or tea?
Dirty chai can be part of a balanced diet if consumed in moderation. It contains antioxidants from both tea and coffee, as well as anti-inflammatory spices like ginger and cinnamon. However, it has higher caffeine content than regular coffee or tea, which may not suit everyone. Choosing low-fat milk and reducing sugar can enhance its health benefits.
What are the caffeine content and energy benefits of drinking dirty chai?
Dirty chai provides a double dose of caffeine because it contains both espresso and masala chai tea. This combination offers a balanced caffeine boost that is stronger than regular tea but smoother than just coffee. It suits those looking for an energizing drink without the harshness of straight coffee.
Are there any trusted expert opinions on the health effects of tea and coffee in dirty chai?
Yes, Dr. Saurabh Sethi, a gastroenterologist trained at AIIMS, Harvard, and Stanford, endorses black tea and black coffee for their health benefits when consumed appropriately. He highlights black tea’s antioxidant and prebiotic properties and black coffee’s role in liver protection, reduced cancer risk, and improved cognitive function. Moderation and timing, such as not drinking tea on an empty stomach, are important.
Dr. Saurabh Sethi via Instagram|black tea - yes or no?
Dr. Saurabh Sethi via Instagram|What could happen if you drank black coffee for 14 days
Disclaimer: This content is for general informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with any questions about your health or treatment options.
At marvelof.com, we spotlight the latest trends and products to keep you informed and inspired. Our coverage is editorial, not an endorsement to purchase. If you choose to shop through links in this article, whether on Amazon, Flipkart, or Myntra, marvelof.com may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.