07 May Shashemane: Native Irie Fiery Chai Masala
Review by Greg Wagenmakers
Location of Manufacture: Kingsthorpe, Qld
Ingredients: Tea, Cassia Bark, Cinnamon Myrtle, Nutmeg Ground, Bay leaves, Cloves, Lemon Myrtle, Ginger, Fennel, Cracked black pepper, Green Cardamom Pods, Habanero Powder.
Review: This product was sent directly from Chef Andrew as a recommendation from Mr Chilli himself. I’m glad he did, as this masala will be a recipient for the ‘Most Unique and Original Product’ in the 2017 Mr Chilli Awards. A look at the ingredients can only hint that the delight that will follow once the milk is heated and the spices are able to brew. The concoction of spices possess a wonderful aroma when dry and when brewed with the milk, a true chai can be enjoyed. It was suggested to have without any sugar; doing so allowed the spices to speak for themselves with the tea, cloves, lemon myrtle and cardamom seeds taking poll position on the palate. These flavours and aromas are enveloped within the warm blanket provided by the habanero powder. Be mindful that one does not ‘taste’ heat; one ‘feels’ it, so essentially the heat is an added dimension, which can be consumed as a chai tea or even a supplement to ‘spice’ up a smoothie.
It is no wonder that this product will be awarded the Most Unique and Original Product of 2017. Chef Andrew from Jondaryan Woolshed has developed a product for a niche market within a niche market. This takes courage and by staying true to a passion for authentic flavours, he should be commended.
For flavour, I give this an 8/10. One can add sugar if they please but I found that by brewing the tea with only the spices, the flavours were able to linger for a lot longer without a dominating sickly sweet flavour. For flavour I also give this product an 8/10. It needs to be acknowledged that this tea contains 100% spices, without any additives or flavours. Give it a go.
