A latte is made with espresso, steamed milk, and foam - smooth and creamy, whether hot or iced. Unlike a cappuccino, which has equal parts coffee and foam, a latte blends milk into the coffee for a milder flavor.
A chai latte swaps coffee for chai, India’s spiced milk tea. Made with a blend of spices like cardamom and ginger, chai is a comforting, aromatic drink.
Originating in coffee shops as an off-menu hack, the Dirty Chai Latte has now become a café favorite around the world. It’s simply your classic karak chai (Indian spiced tea) enhanced with a rich shot of espresso. The result? A beautifully layered beverage that offers the comfort of home-brewed chai and the energy of a strong cup of coffee.
At Nitan Chai, we are passionate about honoring traditional South Asian chai culture while embracing the tastes of a modern, fast-paced lifestyle. This recipe combines both worlds beautifully.
Where Does Dirty Chai Come From?
The Dirty Chai Latte originated purely by accident. In the 1990s, an American tourist ordered a chai latte at Convent Garden in England. The barista mistakenly added a shot of espresso to the drink, but the customer decided to give it a try - and loved it! From that moment, the Dirty Chai Latte quickly became popular in coffee shops across the Global market.
Why Is A Dirty Chai Latte Called “Dirty”?
The term "dirty" comes from the addition of espresso to chai, which changes its color. While Nitan Chai’s blends, like Cardamom Chai and Kadak Chai, usually have a light, warm brown hue, adding espresso deepens the color to a darker, muddier brown. No worries — it’s all about the bold, flavorful transformation, and it’s a fun twist to a traditional favorite!
What Does a Dirty Chai Latte Taste Like?
Describing the taste of a Dirty Chai Latte is tough, but it’s incredibly fragrant and comforting. The smooth, bold espresso combines perfectly with the warm, aromatic spices of Nitan Chai — whether it’s a Ginger Chai, Masala Chai or Karak Chai. Blended with rich milk and topped with a creamy foam, it’s the best of both worlds. If you have never tried it, now’s the time! It might just become your new favorite latte.
What Chai Flavor Do I Use For Dirty Chai Latte?
For the perfect Dirty Chai Latte, Nitan Chai offers a variety of delicious flavors. Whether you prefer the spicy Masala Chai, the strong Karak Chai, the soothing Cardamom Chai, the bold Filter Coffee, the flavorful Cardamom Ginger Chai, or the fresh Ginger Chai, there’s a perfect blend for everyone. Try them all and find your favorite!
Why Make It at Home?
While you can find Dirty Chai Lattes at many cafés, making one at home gives you full control over the flavor, strength, sweetness, and milk choice — plus, it’s far more affordable.
With Nitan Chai Premix Flavors, you can enjoy authentic, café-quality chai in minutes. Whether you are brewing for one or preparing a large batch, our premix delivers consistent results — bold, aromatic, and spiced just right.
If making a Dirty Chai Latte has been on the bucket list, now is the time to check it off. Ready to brew this perfect blend of coffee and spice? Let’s get started!
Ingredients and Step-by-Step Guide
You will need just a few basic ingredients:
- Preferred Amount of Nitan Karak Chai
- 8 ounces of hot water
- ¾ cup of milk (dairy or dairy-free like oat, almond, or soy)
- Sweetener of choice (optional: honey, maple syrup, or jaggery)
- Cinnamon or nutmeg for garnish (optional)
- Stir and Enjoy
How Do I Froth the Milk For a Dirty Chai Latte?
Frothing the milk for a Dirty Chai Latte is easy, even without fancy equipment! If you have a handheld frother, that’s great, but there are other simple ways to achieve frothy milk:
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French Press: Add steamed milk to a French press and pump the plunger up and down to froth it.
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Electric Frother: You can also use an electric frother to create creamy foam for your latte.
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Whisk: If you prefer a more hands-on approach, a whisk can froth the milk with just a little effort.
- Steam Wand: For coffee lovers who want to take things up a notch, a steam wand provides the ultimate frothing experience.
You can heat your milk on the stove or in the microwave before frothing it. Whether you are using Nitan Chai’s Masala Chai or Cardamom Ginger Chai, frothing the milk will give your Dirty Chai Latte that creamy texture, perfect for enjoying the rich spices and bold flavors!
Why Choose Nitan Chai?
Nitan Chai offers a range of high-quality chai products and machines designed to bring the authentic taste of South Asian chai to Canada. Their Masala Chai Premix is crafted with premium ingredients, ensuring a rich and flavorful cup every time. For those looking to serve chai in a commercial setting, Nitan Chai's machines provide an efficient and consistent brewing solution.
Final Thoughts
The Dirty Chai Latte is a versatile drink that caters to both tea and coffee lovers. With Nitan Chai's products, crafting this beverage becomes an easy and enjoyable experience. Whether you are starting your day or seeking an afternoon pick-me-up, this spiced and caffeinated delight is sure to satisfy.
Contact Us
Nitan Chai
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