
Nadan Chaya
How to brew perfect Kerala tea
Kerala chaya runs about one part milk to two parts water — far lighter than the milk-heavy chai of the north — and it is finished by pulling the tea between two tumblers until it froths.

Boil milk and water together
Take your preferred ratio of milk and water in one vessel and bring it to the boil together — not water first.
Add the powder at half boil
Once it is half boiled, stir in 2 teaspoons of tea powder.
Boil, then rest
Let it come to a full boil, then take it off the heat and rest at least 30 seconds so the colour and body settle.
Pull for froth
Pour between two tumblers from a height. The greater the drop, the better the froth — the “one-metre chaya” of Kerala tea shops.
CTC vs orthodox
CTC — crush, tear, curl — is machine-processed into granules that brew fast and strong. Orthodox leaf is rolled whole and gives a lighter, more aromatic cup. Over 80% of Indian tea is CTC.
What the grades mean
BOP is Broken Orange Pekoe: smaller broken leaf, quick infusion, full body and colour. Whole-leaf grades like OP brew lighter and more floral.
Water, not just leaf
Boiling water scorches tea and pulls harsh tannin. Take it off the boil to around 95°C and time the steep.
Our everyday tea for a proper Kerala chaya. It's a fine tea powder from Idukki, milled so it gives up its colour and strength quickly and stands up to plenty of milk.
How to make nadan chaya
- Boil milk and water together in your usual ratio.
- When it's halfway to boiling, add 2 teaspoons of tea powder.
- Bring it to a full boil, take it off the heat and let it rest for 30 seconds.
- Strain, add sugar, and pour between two tumblers to build the froth.
What it tastes like
Strong and malty, with enough body for milk. Smooth, not harsh.
Storing it
Keep the pouch tightly sealed, or move the tea to an airtight container away from moisture and strong smells.
Delivery usually takes 4–5 working days across India. Free shipping on orders above ₹649. Questions before ordering? WhatsApp us on +91 88482 65849.
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