Authentic Karak Chai Recipe
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Authentic Karak Chai Recipe

20 min 2 cups Easy
Karak Chai is a beloved spiced tea, originating from the Middle East, known for its robust flavour and aromatic spices. It combines black tea with fragrant spices like cardamom and cinnamon, creating a perfect balance of warmth and sweetness. This version of Karak Chai focuses on authenticity and simplicity, making it accessible for anyone looking to enjoy a comforting and energizing beverage. Whether you're a tea aficionado or a newcomer to spiced teas, this recipe will guide you through creating a delightful cup of Karak Chai.

Instructions

1

Boil the water

In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil over medium heat.

2

Add spices and tea

Add 2 teaspoons of black tea leaves, 4 crushed cardamom pods, 1 cinnamon stick, and 1 inch of sliced ginger to the boiling water.

Pro tip: Crush the cardamom pods with the back of a spoon to release more flavour.

3

Simmer the mixture

Reduce heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the spices to infuse.

Pro tip: For a stronger flavour, simmer for an additional 5 minutes.

4

Add sugar and milk

Stir in 2 tablespoons of sugar and 1 cup of milk. Increase the heat to medium and bring the mixture back to a gentle boil.

Pro tip: Adjust sugar to your preference.

5

Strain the tea

Once the tea has reached the desired strength, strain the mixture into cups using a fine mesh sieve to remove the spices and tea leaves.

6

Serve hot

Pour the strained Karak Chai into cups and serve immediately while hot.

Pro tip: Garnish with a sprinkle of cardamom powder for added aroma.

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Tips & Tricks

  • Use whole spices for maximum flavour.
  • Simmer the tea to fully infuse the spices.
  • Adjust sugar and milk to personal taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Karak Chai?

Karak Chai is a strong, spiced tea from the Middle East, known for its aromatic blend of black tea, cardamom, cinnamon, and ginger.

How do you make Karak Chai?

To make Karak Chai, boil water with black tea leaves, cardamom, cinnamon, and ginger, then add sugar and milk before straining.

How many calories are in Karak Chai?

A serving of Karak Chai typically contains about 120 calories.

What spices are in Karak Chai?

Common spices in Karak Chai include cardamom, cinnamon, and fresh ginger.

Can I use tea bags for Karak Chai?

Yes, you can use 2 black tea bags as a substitute for loose tea leaves in Karak Chai.

How long should Karak Chai simmer?

Simmer the Karak Chai for about 10 minutes to allow the spices to infuse properly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Karak Chai hot, ideally with traditional Middle Eastern snacks like dates or baklava. It pairs beautifully with a light breakfast or can be enjoyed on its own for a cozy afternoon tea. Make ahead by preparing the spice mix in bulk, storing it in an airtight container for up to a month. Once brewed, Karak Chai can be refrigerated for up to three days and reheated as needed.

Nutrition per serving

120

Calories

3g

Protein

3g

Fat

22g

Carbs