How to Brew PD CTC Tea for Strong Morning Chai

Quick answer

Boil 1 teaspoon of PD CTC tea per cup of water for 5-7 minutes to extract maximum strength, then strain and serve with milk and sugar.

Steps to brew PD CTC tea for strong morning chai

1. Measure the tea and water: Use 1 teaspoon of PD CTC tea per 8 ounces (1 cup) of water. For a stronger chai, you can increase to 1.5 teaspoons, but avoid going over 2 teaspoons to prevent bitterness. Too much tea can make the chai harsh, not just strong.
2. Boil water with the tea leaves: Add the tea directly to cold water in a pot, then bring to a rolling boil. Unlike steeping, boiling PD tea for 5-7 minutes extracts the full strength and color needed for a robust chai. Boiling is key—don't just steep; the heat breaks down the CTC particles.
3. Add milk and simmer: After boiling, add warm milk (about 1/4 cup per cup of water) and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes. This mellows the tannins and creates a creamy texture without diluting strength. Adding cold milk can shock the brew and reduce extraction.
4. Strain and serve: Pour the chai through a fine-mesh strainer into your cup. Add sugar or spices like ginger and cardamom to taste. Serve immediately for the best flavor. Don't let the chai sit on the leaves after boiling—it will become overly bitter.

Product facts

• Single grade CTC sample pack-PD only: Single-grade CTC format for a focused tasting experience, with PD designation for a specific particle size. This sample pack lets you evaluate PD's character before committing to a larger quantity, ensuring it matches your preferred brew strength.