South Asia

Chai Chalni

Indian subcontinent broadly

A small, fine-mesh strainer used specifically to strain tea leaves and spices out of boiled milk tea just before serving.

A fine wire mesh set into a small metal ring with a short handle, sized to sit over a single cup or small teapot.

Straining loose tea leaves, crushed ginger, cardamom, and other spices out of chai at the final pouring stage, leaving a clear liquid in the cup.

Any small fine-mesh kitchen strainer serves the same purpose; dedicated chai strainers are widely sold alongside Indian tea and spice equipment.

Rinse immediately after use, since dried tea residue clogs the fine mesh and is difficult to remove once set.