How long should the milk be steamed when preparing a Classic Chai Tea Latte?

The appropriate duration for steaming milk when preparing a Classic Chai Tea Latte is 3-5 seconds. This time frame allows the milk to heat adequately while also introducing a small amount of air, creating a velvety microfoam that complements the spices of the chai tea.

Steaming for 3-5 seconds is ideal as it helps achieve the desired temperature and texture without compromising the quality of the milk, which can become scalded or overly frothy if steamed for too long. This balance is crucial for a beverage where the milk and chai tea must blend harmoniously to enhance the overall flavor profile.

A shorter steaming time would not adequately heat or aerate the milk, while a longer steaming time could result in unfavorable milk curdling or a less desirable texture. This makes the choice of 3-5 seconds the most effective and balanced approach in preparing this popular drink.