Although I rarely seek it out above other beverages, I generally enjoy chai and I've tried plenty of different varieties and brands throughout the years. Just from Trader Joe's alone, we've seen pretty decent chai tea bags and powdered chai mix, among others. So what sets this product apart from the pack?
Well, it's concentrated, obviously. The bottle asks for two parts milk or non-dairy beverage to every one part chai. We used almond milk. That 2:1 ratio seemed right on the money to me. I usually have to get rebellious when it comes to preparation instructions, but not here.
Also, this stuff is actually spicy. There's a warmth you can feel as you drink the beverage, and it lingers in the mouth for a bit after you're done. Neither of us found it unpleasant, but I could see some folks seeking out something a little less feisty. You could always just dilute the mixture a tad more if you're in that camp.
The black tea flavor, too, is strong. Sonia thinks the biggest differences between this product and Oregon Chai is the bolder black tea flavor and stronger spiciness in this Trader Joe's offering. The Oregon version is a little lighter on both counts.
Despite its intensity, the wife and I both found it highly drinkable and don't have any major complaints. When asked if she preferred this over her beloved Oregon Chai, she said neither one is head and shoulders above the other, but her preference would depend on her mood on a given day. She said this one reminded her of a certain Tazo chai she used to drink many years ago, but hasn't had in a while.
$2.49 for a pint of concentrated chai. Along with TJ's concentrated cold brew coffees, this product is a winner in our books. Four stars a piece.
Bottom line: 8 out of 10.
I just had some this morning! I wish the sugar content was just a tad lower, but mixed with the 1% milk (and ice, and a little water sometimes), it isn't overly sweet-tasting. I'll have to try the Oregon Chai now.
ReplyDeleteI think this would be good swap for water in cake mixes to give it a twist on regular cake.
ReplyDeleteJust saw this for the first time! My husband is addicted to dirty chais (chai with espresso shots), and it's nearly $7 each at Starbucks or Dutch Bros. I thought this might be the next best thing for him, and it worked great! He mixed it with vanilla almond milk and his coffee, poured it over ice, and he loved it.
ReplyDeleteTRY THIS WITH OAT MILK ITS SO GOOD
ReplyDeleteagreed, it is better than almond milk
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