Immunity boosters are the need of the hour! Since the coronavirus outbreak, health experts have been stressing on the importance of having a good immune system. Even the celebrities who are following a strict diet regime themselves, are spreading awareness through social media on how essential it is to boost immunity. A good immune system can fight infections and viruses. Without a healthy immunity, you could pick up infectious diseases more easily, and the effects could be serious – even fatal. Today I am going to share this immune-boosting chai masala powder recipe which can be easily prepared with very common kitchen ingredients.
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That one cup of ‘kadak’ chai can make everything better, isn’t it? And when it is brewed with herbs and spices, it provides instant energy and boosts your immunity to fight infections. Apart from the goodness of tea, you will get the various nutritional benefits of spices. It is true that there are no magic drinks that can suddenly boost the immune system but certain ingredients do play a key role in disease prevention and recovery. Moreover, it is a plus point that you are getting these nutrients in the form of your favourite chai! So, let’s check out the ingredients list first.
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Ingredients Of Chai Masala Powder
Dry Ginger Powder (Saunth)- 50 grams
This may help sore throats in several ways. Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties that provide pain relief. It is believed to have antimicrobial properties that may help fight infections (bacterial or viral). Ginger promotes immune responses to kill viruses.
Green Cardamom (Elaichi)-10 grams
Cardamom’s small green pods are rich sources of minerals and antioxidants that aid in blood detoxification and resolve digestive issues. The aromatic spice also contains vitamin C and other essential nutrients.
Fennel Seeds (Saunf)- 2 tablespoons
It contains a mix of antioxidants, antimicrobial components and anti-inflammatory volatile oils, which help alleviate the risk of cold, cough and flu and provides instant relief. It also helps keep several seasonal infections at bay by enhancing immunity.
Cinnamon (Dalchini)- 3-4 Cinnamon sticks
It makes your immunity stronger and energizes the virus-fighting cells. Cinnamon is rich in antioxidants and has several healing properties. It prepares the body to fight different kinds of infections and allergies.
Clove (Laung)- 10 grams
These dried flower buds add a distinct flavour and intense aroma to your chai masala powder. Clove can be added to any of your traditional home remedies to fight the symptoms of flu and congestion. Due to its antioxidant, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties, clove is known to act against bacteria, viruses and fungi.
Black Pepper Corns (Kali Mirch)- 10 grams
With a distinctive taste and pungent aroma, this spice offers myriad health benefits. Black pepper is replete with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which is known to alleviate cold, cough and rev up your immunity naturally. It also helps to clear chest congestion. It is also rich in vitamin C that works as a good antibiotic.
Liquorice (Mulethi)- 2-3 Liquorice Sticks
Mulethi blocks the growth of several viruses, bacteria and fungus. This makes mulethi very effective against viral fevers and other diseases. Chewing mulethi sticks is an age-old remedy for a sore throat. Due to its expectorant and bronchodilator properties, it can cure cough, bronchitis and also reduce the effects of chronic asthma.
Honey (as per taste)
Drinking hot tea with honey has been shown to help soothe a sore throat and can even reduce irritating coughs. It has antimicrobial properties, which may allow it to fight some bacteria and viruses.
Holy Basil (Tulsi)- 2-3 leaves for 1 cup
Tulsi is one of the most purifying Ayurvedic herbs. When it comes to colds and flu, tulsi can help reduce headaches, fevers and relieve congestion. It supports digestion by stimulating the flow of bile and also has anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal properties that help protect you from a persistent cough.
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Preparation Of Chai Masala Powder
- Combine all the ingredients, except honey and tulsi, together in a broad non-stick pan and dry roast on a medium flame for 2-3 minutes.
- Transfer into a plate and keep aside to cool completely. Once cooled, blend them all in a mixer to a smooth powder.
- Your chai masala powder is ready. Store it in an airtight container. It will stay good for about 4 months.
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Preparation Of Kadak Masala Chai
- Put one teaspoon of this chai masala powder and 2-3 leaves of tulsi in boiling water.
- Keep it on low to medium flame and give the spices enough time to steep.
- After 2-3 minutes, add tea leaves and let it simmer for a few more minutes. Add the milk and let it boil.
- Take off the heat, strain it and add honey (as per taste). Sip and enjoy your kadak masala chai!
