Masala Chai ranks second in list of 'World's Best Non-Alcoholic Beverage'

Chai is truly an emotion for every Indian household and this time it received international recognition when TasteAtlas, an encyclopedia of traditional dishes, local ingredients, and authentic restaurants from around the world included the simple drink in its 'World's Best Non-Alcoholic Beverage' list.

Interestingly, it holds the second position in the list.

It lost the numero uno position to Mexico's Aguas Frescas.

In its Instagram post, TasteAtlas wrote: "Chai masala 🇮🇳 is the #2 best non-alcoholic beverage in the world in 2023."

Speaking on the history of tea, TasteAtlas said: "Although there are several theories that claim otherwise, the origin of chai masala is mostly associated with the British tea trade. In the 19th century, the Chinese had a monopoly on the tea trade, and the British looked for other markets that would fulfill the high demand for black tea—which was a firm European favorite."

"Their quest brought them to India, where they started to set up tea plantations. It is believed that chai masala first appeared during that period, but it only became a popular option in the 20th century when the Indian Tea Association promoted tea breaks as a much-needed refreshment for workers and when tea became more affordable. In India, the drink is mainly prepared and sold at challah stalls, but modern interpretations of chai masala are enjoyed around the world," the post said.

Not only Masala Chai but even India's summer favourite Mango Lassi was named as 'best dairy beverage in the world' by TasteAtlas.

In its list, TasteAtlas named Basmati, which is widely cultivated in India, as the best rice in the world.