I can still remember the scent that would fill our kitchen every winter. My mom, a master of spice and comfort, would always make a big batch of something warm and fragrant. It wasn’t always the same thing, but it was always special.
One of my absolute favorites was her version of spiced milk. It wasn’t just any spiced milk, though. It was creamy, exotic, and deeply comforting. To this day, the aroma alone transports me back to cozy evenings by the fire, wrapped in a blanket, and feeling completely content.
Now, I’ve created my own version that evokes those same feelings: chai spiced coconut milk. It’s my go-to beverage when I need a little bit of warmth and calm.
Why you’ll love this Chai Spiced Coconut Milk
- It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients and about 20 minutes of your time.
- The aroma is intoxicating, filling your kitchen with the warm and inviting scents of cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger.
- This chai spiced coconut milk is naturally dairy-free and can be made vegan by using maple syrup, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
- It’s a comforting and healthy way to warm up on a chilly day, offering a boost of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.
- You can easily adjust the sweetness and spice levels to perfectly suit your personal preferences.
- Enjoy it as a morning pick-me-up, an afternoon treat, or a soothing bedtime beverage.
Ingredients
- 2 cups full-fat coconut milk
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 4 whole cloves
- 4 green cardamom pods, lightly crushed
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 1 black tea bag (optional, for a caffeinated version)
- Pinch of sea salt
- Optional garnish: sprinkle of cinnamon, star anise
Directions
Step 1
Chai spiced coconut milk makes every moment feel indulgent. In a small saucepan, combine the coconut milk, water, honey (or maple syrup), cinnamon stick, cloves, cardamom pods, ground ginger, ground nutmeg, black peppercorns, and sea salt.
Step 2
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. If using, add the black tea bag. Be careful not to boil the coconut milk, as it can separate.
Step 3
Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld together. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will be.
Step 4
Remove from heat. If using a tea bag, remove it. Strain the chai spiced coconut milk through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the spices.
Step 5
Pour into mugs and garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a star anise, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Variations, pairings, and serving ideas
Variations
Looking to add a little something extra to your chai spiced coconut milk? Try adding a splash of vanilla extract after simmering for an even warmer flavor. You could also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick of heat. For a richer and creamier texture, use only full-fat coconut milk and skip the water.
If you prefer a sweeter drink, add a little more honey or maple syrup to taste. You can also experiment with different types of sweeteners, such as coconut sugar or agave nectar. Feel free to adjust the amount of each spice to suit your personal preferences.
Consider using different teas in this recipe. Earl Grey or green tea are two great options. For a chocolate twist, add a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the saucepan along with the other spices.
Pairings
Chai spiced coconut milk is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of snacks and desserts. A slice of warm apple pie or https://cookreel.com/southern-fried-apples-recipe/ would be the perfect complement to the warm spices. For a savory option, try serving it alongside a plate of cheese and crackers.
This beverage is also a great accompaniment to breakfast. Enjoy it with a bowl of oatmeal or a stack of pancakes for a comforting and satisfying start to your day. Consider a plate of warm scones, biscuits, or muffins.
For a lighter pairing, try serving it with a fruit salad or a handful of nuts. The creamy coconut milk and warm spices will balance out the sweetness of the fruit. It also makes a delicious after-dinner treat.
Serving ideas
For an elegant presentation, serve your chai spiced coconut milk in a clear glass mug to showcase its beautiful color. Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon, a star anise, or a dusting of nutmeg. You can also add a dollop of whipped coconut cream for an extra touch of indulgence.
If you’re serving it to guests, consider setting up a chai spiced coconut milk bar with a variety of toppings and garnishes. This allows everyone to customize their drink to their liking. Provide options such as cinnamon sticks, star anise, cardamom pods, and different types of sweeteners.
Another great idea is to chill the chai spiced coconut milk and serve it over ice for a refreshing summertime treat. This is a great way to enjoy the flavors of chai even when it’s hot outside. It also works well as an ingredient in smoothies or milkshakes.
You might also consider enjoying it with Thai Coconut Chicken Soup, for which you can find a great recipe at Cook Reel.
Storage and make-ahead tips
Storage
Leftover chai spiced coconut milk can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to let it cool completely before refrigerating. The coconut milk may separate slightly during storage, but this is perfectly normal.
To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be sure to do so in short intervals to prevent it from overheating and separating. Avoid boiling it.
Freezing is not recommended, as the coconut milk may change in texture and become grainy when thawed. It is best to enjoy it fresh or within a few days of making it.
Make-ahead
You can easily prepare the chai spice mixture ahead of time and store it in an airtight container. This will save you time when you’re ready to make the chai spiced coconut milk. Simply combine the spices (cinnamon stick, cloves, cardamom pods, ground ginger, ground nutmeg, black peppercorns, and sea salt) in a small jar and seal tightly.
When you’re ready to make the drink, just add the spice mixture to the coconut milk and water and simmer as directed. This is a great option for meal prepping or when you want to have a quick and easy beverage on hand.
Another option is to make a large batch of the chai spiced coconut milk and store it in the refrigerator for several days. This way, you can simply grab a mug and reheat it whenever you’re in the mood for a warm and comforting drink. This is a great way to ensure that you always have a healthy and delicious beverage available.
Common mistakes when making Chai Spiced Coconut Milk
- Boiling the coconut milk: Boiling can cause the coconut milk to separate, resulting in a less creamy texture. Always simmer gently over low heat.
- Using old spices: Spices lose their potency over time, so be sure to use fresh spices for the best flavor. Replace your spices every 6-12 months.
- Not straining the milk: Straining the milk removes the spices, resulting in a smoother and more enjoyable drink. Use a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth.
- Over-sweetening: Start with a small amount of sweetener and adjust to taste. Too much sweetener can mask the delicate flavors of the spices.
- Skipping the salt: A pinch of salt enhances the flavors of the spices and balances the sweetness. Don’t skip this important step!
Final notes
This chai spiced coconut milk is more than just a drink; it’s an experience. It’s a moment of calm, a warm embrace, and a reminder of simpler times. I encourage you to experiment with the spices and sweeteners to create a version that is perfectly tailored to your tastes.
Don’t be afraid to get creative and add your own personal touch. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cold winter night or a warm summer afternoon, I hope this recipe brings you as much joy and comfort as it brings me. Remember the best part of cooking is sharing it with those you love.
Loved this Chai Spiced Coconut Milk? Try these next
Chai Spiced Coconut Milk
Warm up with this comforting and anti-inflammatory chai spiced coconut milk. It’s the perfect healthy and delicious drink to enjoy any time of day.
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 cups full-fat coconut milk
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 4 whole cloves
- 4 green cardamom pods, lightly crushed
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 1 black tea bag (optional, for a caffeinated version)
- Pinch of sea salt
- Optional garnish: sprinkle of cinnamon, star anise
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, combine the coconut milk, water, honey (or maple syrup), cinnamon stick, cloves, cardamom pods, ground ginger, ground nutmeg, black peppercorns, and sea salt.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. If using, add the black tea bag. Be careful not to boil the coconut milk.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Remove from heat. If using a tea bag, remove it. Strain the chai spiced coconut milk through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the spices.
- Pour into mugs and garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a star anise, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
Store leftover chai spiced coconut milk in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving. For a richer flavor, use full-fat coconut milk. Adjust the sweetness and spice levels to your liking. You can also add a knob of fresh ginger for a stronger ginger flavor.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg