The Tao of Tea 500 Mile Chai CTC Black Tea, 4 oz Tin — Robust Spiced Chai for Boiled Milk

The Tao of Tea 500 Mile Chai is a robust cut-tear-and-curl black tea blended with organic ginger, cloves, cardamom and cinnamon, crafted for traditional boiling into a strong, milky chai.

Inspired by roadside chai stalls and the “500 mile” tradition of truckers asking for a bold, sweet cup to keep them going, this 4 ounce tin delivers the intense, malty foundation chai requires. The tea uses CTC-grade leaves—heavily rolled and low in moisture—making it especially suited to boiling with milk and sweeteners. We blend in certified organic spices so you get a consistent aroma and flavor that stands up to long simmering.

How is this chai best prepared for an authentic flavor?

Traditional preparation calls for simmering the CTC black tea with milk and water so the coarse leaves fully release body and spice. Boil the tea with grated ginger and spices or steep the blend directly, then strain and sweeten to taste for a classic dhaba-style cup.

• Use a 1:1 ratio of water to whole milk for a creamy texture.
• Add 1–2 teaspoons of tea per 8 oz liquid; simmer 5–10 minutes.
• Sweeten with sugar, jaggery, or condensed milk as preferred.
• Strain through a fine sieve or cloth for a clear, smooth pour.

What makes CTC tea different and why is it chosen for chai?

CTC (cut, tear, and curl) processing produces dense, granular leaves with low moisture that release strong tannins and color quickly. That concentrated profile holds up well against milk and sugar and pairs naturally with bold spices, giving chai its signature punch and lasting flavor.

• CTC yields a brisk, malty cup with fast infusion and deep color.
• Low moisture content preserves strength during boiling.
• Robust flavor integrates smoothly with ginger, cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon.
• Works well for both quick stovetop chai and long-simmer recipes.

Which spices are included and how do they affect the taste?

The blend pairs black tea with organic ginger, cloves, cardamom and cinnamon to create a layered spice profile: warm sweetness from cinnamon, bright heat from ginger, aromatic top notes from cardamom, and a clove-backed depth. Together they deliver a balanced, spicy chai that tolerates simmering without losing nuance.

• Ginger: adds warming, zesty heat.
• Cloves: contribute a deep, slightly astringent backbone.
• Cardamom: lends floral, citrusy brightness.
• Cinnamon: brings sweet warmth and lingering finish.

How should I store the 4 ounce tin to keep flavor fresh?

The compact tin protects the tea from light and humidity; keep it sealed in a cool, dry spot away from strong odors. For longer storage, transfer to an airtight container inside a pantry or cupboard to preserve volatile spice oils and the tea’s brisk character.

• Reseal tin after each use to limit air exposure.
• Store away from heat sources and direct sunlight.
• Avoid storing near spices or strong-smelling foods.
• Use within several months for peak aroma and potency.

Who is this for: The Tao of Tea 500 Mile Chai is made for chai lovers who prefer a bold, milky cup—commuters, home baristas and anyone who admires the roadside dhaba style. It suits people looking for a ready-to-boil blend that withstands long simmering and pairs well with milk and sweeteners, plus those who value organic spices in a compact, travel-friendly 4 oz tin.

Ingredients

100% Organic Black Tea Leaves, 100% Organic Cinnamon, 100% Organic Dried Ginger, 100% Organic Cloves and 100% Organic Cardamom.