Skip to content
GulfSpoongulfspoon

Karak Chai: The Gulf's Beloved Spiced Tea

By Sarah Al-Fayed|Updated: October 5, 2024
Two small glasses of rich golden karak chai with cardamom pods alongside
Prep 2 mins
Cook 8 mins
Total 10 mins
Servings 2
Difficulty Easy
Cuisine Emirati

The Gulf's beloved spiced tea — strong, creamy, and fragrant with cardamom and saffron.

Karak Chai

Scale:

Ingredients

  • 2 bags black tea bags or loose leaf tea (strong black tea like CTC)
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 cup evaporated milk
  • 2 tbsp sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 3 pods cardamom pods, crushed
  • 1 pinch saffron threads (optional)

Instructions

  1. 1

    Bring water to a boil in a small saucepan. Add tea and crushed cardamom. Boil for 2-3 minutes until the tea is very strong and dark.

  2. 2

    Add evaporated milk and sugar. Bring to a rolling boil, then reduce heat. Let it simmer and rise 3-4 times, lowering and raising the heat to build richness.

  3. 3

    Strain into small glasses (istikana) and serve immediately.

Tips

  • The 'karak' comes from repeatedly boiling the tea and milk — this concentrates the flavor.
  • Use evaporated milk for authentic richness. Fresh milk works but won't be as creamy.

You Might Also Like