Ingredients
1 cup water
4 green cardamom pods, lightly crushed
1-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and thinly sliced or grated
1 small cinnamon stick (optional)
2 black tea bags or 2 teaspoons loose-leaf black tea (Assam or strong Ceylon)
1 cup whole milk (or evaporated milk for extra richness)
2–3 tablespoons granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
Instructions
Step 1: Lightly crush the cardamom pods and prepare the ginger. In a small saucepan, combine water, crushed cardamom, sliced ginger, and cinnamon stick (if using).
Step 2: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 2-3 minutes to infuse the spices.
Step 3: Add the black tea to the simmering spiced water. Continue to simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the tea to steep and become strong.
Step 4: Pour in the whole milk and add the sugar. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture back to a rolling boil over medium heat.
Step 5: Immediately reduce the heat to low and simmer for at least 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the stronger and creamier your Karak Chai will be.
Step 6: Carefully strain the Karak Chai through a fine-mesh sieve directly into your serving cups, discarding the tea leaves and spices.
Step 7: Serve hot and enjoy your authentic Karak Chai immediately. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and gently reheated.
Notes
For an even richer Karak Chai, use evaporated milk instead of whole milk. Adjust sugar and spices to your preference. Freshly crushed spices make a significant difference in flavor.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Sweet Breakfasts
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240ml)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: Karak Chai, Chai Recipe, Spiced Tea, Milk Tea, Middle Eastern Tea, Indian Tea, Qatari Tea, Cardamom Tea, Ginger Tea, Hot Drink, Breakfast Tea
