When we were first approached about making a few Chai Cocktails for Jaipur Avenue Chai, it was exciting. After all, not a whole lot of bartenders are using chai in cocktails. After getting some samples, dragging out favorite liquors and brainstorming a bit, panic set in. Not a whole lot of bartenders are experimenting with chai, after all… where does one begin?

Make no mistake, Jaipur Avenue Chai is delicious made according to package instruction with no garnish but your favorite mug and a spoon to stir with. (In fact, all our extra samples not needed for experimentation became our morning treat.) Jaipur takes all the work out of making a proper chai, leaving you to add nothing but water. President of the Seattle based company Jillu Zaveri thought the addition of alcohol would make the Chai that much more versatile for those who imbibe and enjoy the traditional Indian drink.

We couldn’t agree with her more. For those wanting to try out the four recipes below, you can find Jaipur Avenue Chai in shops around Seattle or Amazon.com, and for more info just go to www.jaipuravenue.com.

Cheers!

Mumbai Angel
1 oz cognac
1/2 oz benedictine
3 oz Jaipur Avenue Cardamom Chai, chilled

Make the chai according to the instructions on the package, and chill. Stir all other ingredients together with ice, strain out ice. Combine with chai, stir, and pour into cocktail glass.

Chai Amore
1 oz Tuaca
1 oz amaretto
4 oz Jaipur Avenue Masala Chai, hot

Pour all ingredients into mug, stir, and top with whipped cream (and cinnamon if you’d like!)

Pepe Goes To India
1 1/2 oz añejo tequila ( I used Don Julio)
3/4 oz Grand Marnier
3 oz Jaipur Avenue Ginger Chai, chilled
Two drops of Domaine de Canton ginger liqueur

Make the chai according to the instructions on the package, and chill. Stir all other ingredients together with ice, strain out ice. Combine with chai, stir, and pour into cocktail glass. Garnish with an orange peel.

Jaipur Mudslide
1 1/2 oz vanilla vodka
1/2 oz Kahlua
4 oz Jaipur Avenue Vanilla Chai, chilled
dash of cream

Pour all ingredients over ice, stir briefly and serve.