Karak tea
why make this recipe
Karak tea is a beloved drink, especially in the Middle East, known for its bold flavors and soothing warmth. It combines strong black tea with aromatic spices and creamy milk, making it a delightful beverage to sip at any time of the day. Whether you’re serving guests or enjoying a quiet moment alone, Karak tea is the perfect way to lift your spirits.
how to make Karak tea
Ingredients:
- 2 cups water
- 2 tsp loose black tea (or 2 black tea bags)
- ½ tsp ground cardamom (or 2 crushed cardamom pods)
- ½ tsp cinnamon powder (or 1 small cinnamon stick)
- 1 inch piece of ginger, grated
- ¼ tsp saffron strands (optional, for a luxurious touch)
- 2 cloves (optional, for extra spice)
- ½ cup evaporated milk (or regular milk)
- 2 tbsp sugar (or to taste)
Directions:
- In a saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil.
- Add cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves & saffron (if using). Let it simmer for 2 minutes to infuse the flavors.
- Add loose black tea or tea bags to the spiced water. Let it simmer on low heat for 3-5 minutes until the tea darkens and the aroma intensifies.
- Stir in evaporated milk (or regular milk) and bring the tea to a gentle boil. Simmer for 3-4 minutes to develop a rich, creamy texture.
- Add sugar to taste and stir well. Let the tea simmer for another 2 minutes to blend all the flavors.
- Strain the tea into cups using a fine sieve to remove the spices and tea leaves. Serve hot and enjoy the bold, spiced flavors of authentic Karak Chai!
how to serve Karak tea
Karak tea is best served hot in a small cup. You can enjoy it plain or pair it with snacks like biscuits or sweets. The rich taste of the tea makes it a great companion for social gatherings or a cozy evening.
how to store Karak tea
If you have leftover Karak tea, let it cool first. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To enjoy it again, reheating on the stove or in the microwave is best. You might want to add a bit more milk or sugar when warming it up.
tips to make Karak tea
- For a stronger flavor, let the tea simmer longer but make sure not to let it boil too hard.
- You can adjust the sugar to your preference. Taste as you go to achieve your desired sweetness.
- Using fresh spices can enhance the flavor. If possible, use freshly ground cardamom or whole spices.
variation
You can experiment with different spices like nutmeg or star anise for a unique twist on traditional Karak tea. For a richer taste, try adding a little more evaporated milk or use condensed milk for extra sweetness.
FAQs
1. Can I make Karak tea without milk?
Yes, you can make an herbal version by omitting the milk. Just increase the water and enjoy the spiced tea on its own.
2. How can I make Karak tea less sweet?
Simply reduce the amount of sugar added during cooking. Taste it as you add to find your perfect sweetness.
3. Is Karak tea served cold?
Traditionally, Karak tea is served hot, but you can chill it and serve it over ice for a refreshing summer drink.
Karak Tea
Ingredients
Method
- In a saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil.
- Add cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves & saffron (if using). Let it simmer for 2 minutes to infuse the flavors.
- Add loose black tea or tea bags to the spiced water. Let it simmer on low heat for 3-5 minutes until the tea darkens and the aroma intensifies.
- Stir in evaporated milk (or regular milk) and bring the tea to a gentle boil. Simmer for 3-4 minutes to develop a rich, creamy texture.
- Add sugar to taste and stir well. Let the tea simmer for another 2 minutes to blend all the flavors.
- Strain the tea into cups using a fine sieve to remove the spices and tea leaves. Serve hot.