Who Am I? & Why Chai?

Vanakkam & Hello, I’m Fiona, the founder of Golden Chai Co.

I didn’t grow up drinking authentic Indian chai. I only knew of powdered chai lattes and “chai tea” bags. My first real of cup of chai wasn’t served in a café, or in India, it was made for me by my partner. He patiently crushed spices, brewed tea, and boiled the milk to perfection every day for years. This ritual felt like sunshine in a cup; warm, vibrant, and alive with the rhythm of the day. When I met his Amma, (Mum in Tamil), I made her chai to impress her. I couldn’t speak much Tamil, but the cup said “I care, I’m here, I want to learn and connect”. Chai, and many other dishes, became our bridge, watching the spices dance, and the milk boil, I realised this was more than a recipe. It was an act of care, repeated every morning and every afternoon, a rhythm that brought peace, ritual and belonging. The process of making real chai takes time. You have to be patient, mindful and watch with a close eye, otherwise, it will boil over and burn quickly. Real chai uses whole spices that have been carefully curated, measured and crushed. The masala (spices) in chai are promoted for a range of health benefits, such as being anti-inflammatory, high in anti-oxidants and have an ability to support digestion, metabolism and immunity. Likewise, black tea is rich in antioxidants and is said to provide health benefits, including improved heart and gut health. Whole milk creates a rich and creamy base that contains 8 grams of protein (250mL) , as well as calcium, Vitamin D and Vitamin B12. Health benefits aside, chai provides a moment of peace and connection in our busy lives.

Golden Chai Co. now shares this ritual with our city, Meanjin (Brisbane), one market at a time, so others can experience the same golden moment.