Ex-Vogue editor turned food enthusiast, Diya (@diyaeatswell), creates recipes grounded in her South Indian roots and the recipes she grew up with. She loves finding simple ways to bring those flavours into everyday cooking, often sharing dishes that feel both nostalgic and approachable. Chai has always been part of that story, from making afternoon cups for her parents to watching chai wallahs brew huge vats while visiting her grandparents in Bangalore. So when we asked her how she'd make iced chai in the Loka Chai Maker, her answer was simple…if it's summer, it has to be iced.
Spiced Iced Chai Latte
What you'll need
- 2 tbsp Loka x Diaspora Co Spiced Chai Blend
- 400ml whole milk (or 2% milk)
- 200ml filtered water
- Condensed milk, to taste (cardamom condensed milk if you can find it)
- Ice cubes
- Whipped cream or cold foam
- Ground cinnamon (optional)
- A pitcher or Pyrex jug for cooling
How to make it
Brew your chai in the Loka chai maker over medium heat using the chai blend, milk and water. Once it begins to fountain, let it brew for 6–8 minutes, or until it reaches your preferred strength and colour.
Cool it down. Pour the chai into a pitcher or Pyrex jug and leave it to cool to room temperature. For faster cooling, use a jug that's been chilled in the fridge or freezer.
Build the glass. Fill a glass with ice. If using condensed milk, add it first, then pour over the cooled chai and stir well. If using sugar instead, dissolve it into the warm chai before cooling.
Finish with whipped cream or cold foam, then dust with a little cinnamon if you like. Best enjoyed straight away, though the chai will keep in the fridge for up to a day.
Watch Diya's full recipe video here and give her a follow while you're at it:
