30-Second Summary
- What it is: CTC Indian Breakfast Tea is a strong black tea made with the crush–tear–curl process.
- Flavour: Bold, malty, and very robust.
- Caffeine: Medium–high.
- Best for: A hearty morning cup with milk and sugar.
What is CTC Indian Breakfast Tea?
CTC Indian Breakfast Tea uses rolled pellets of black tea that brew quickly and strongly. It’s designed to be drunk with milk and often sweetened.
What does it taste like?
- Aroma: Strong malt and tannin.
- Taste: Very bold, brisk, and assertive.
- Body: Full.
- Aftertaste: Lingering strength that holds up to milk.
How to Brew CTC Indian Breakfast Tea
- Use 2–3 g (or one heaped teaspoon) per 250 ml water.
- Boil fresh water to 95–100°C.
- Steep for 3–5 minutes.
- Add milk and sweetener to taste.
Storage & Uses
- Store in an airtight container away from moisture.
- Ideal base for Masala Chai and other strong blends.
- If you enjoy brisk, no-nonsense milk tea, you might also like Dooars Black Tea, another everyday Indian black tea from the Himalayan foothills.
Related teas to try
If you enjoy hearty breakfast-style teas, you might also like Assam Black Tea or the bright, punchy character of Kenyan Black Tea.

