Dirty Chai – How to Make Chai Latte with Espresso

Dirty Chai is simply a Chai Latte with espresso. Chai spices and milk meet the roasted, slightly bitter character of coffee. That makes it particularly useful for cafés because it builds on ingredients that are often already on the bar.

Dirty Chai – basic recipe

• 1 portion of chai base for your chosen cup size
• 1 shot espresso
• Steamed milk or plant drink

Chai products have different dosing directions, so use the manufacturer's amount as your starting point. The important thing is the balance between chai, espresso and milk rather than a universal number of grams.

How to make a hot Dirty Chai

1. Prepare the chai base and dissolve it fully.
2. Brew a fresh shot of espresso.
3. Steam milk to a smooth latte texture.
4. Combine chai and espresso.
5. Add the milk and serve immediately.

Which chai works best?

A classic spiced chai is a good place to start. David Rio Tiger Spice Chai gives a clear chai direction, while Elephant Vanilla Chai creates a rounder vanilla profile.

Power Chai Espresso – the easy shortcut

David Rio Power Chai Espresso combines chai and espresso directions in one product. It can be useful when you want a fast solution or do not want to build the drink from separate chai and espresso every time.

How to make Iced Dirty Chai

1. Dissolve the chai base thoroughly.
2. Brew espresso and combine it with the chai base.
3. Fill a large glass well with ice.
4. Add cold milk or plant drink.
5. Pour in the chai/espresso mixture and stir briefly.

You can also layer the drink for visual effect, but it should ultimately mix evenly.

How much espresso?

One shot is a good starting point. An “extra dirty” version can use more espresso, but the chai spices should still be noticeable. Standardise the recipe around your coffee and cup size.

Which milk?

Dairy, oat and other plant drinks can all work. Espresso and spices are both aromatic, so choose milk that adds the desired body without hiding the chai profile.

Is Dirty Chai sweet?

That depends mainly on the chai product. Many chai mixes already have a sweetness profile, so taste before adding extra syrup or sugar.

Can you add vanilla or caramel?

Yes, but start carefully. If the chai already contains vanilla or substantial sweetness, extra syrup can quickly make the drink heavy. Browse our coffee syrups.

Dirty Chai in a professional café

The drink is efficient because it can be built from chai, espresso and milk that many cafés already use. Keep a fixed chai dose, espresso recipe and cup size for consistent flavour.

Read our Chai Latte guide and David Rio Chai guide.

FAQ

What is Dirty Chai?

A Chai Latte with espresso.

Can Dirty Chai be served iced?

Yes. Dissolve the chai base first, add espresso, then build the drink with cold milk and ice.

What is the difference between Chai Latte and Dirty Chai?

The espresso. A regular Chai Latte does not need coffee, while Dirty Chai contains espresso or an equivalent coffee component.