Karak Tea
Karak tea is a rich and creamy spiced tea, popular in the Gulf region of the Middle East. Think of it as a close cousin to Indian masala chai, but with fewer spices and a heavier emphasis on bold tea flavors.
Ingredients
- 4 Tablespoon White Sugar 50 gram
- 4 Cup Hot water
- 2 Tablespoon Loose black tea
- 6 Pods Whole cardamom
- 3 Whole cloves
- Pinch saffron threads (like 5-6 threads)
- 3 slices whole ginger root, or pinch of ginger powder
- 2/3 cup evaporated milk 170 gram
Instructions
- Begin by heating sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Allow it to melt and caramelize into a golden liquid. This step adds depth and a subtle smokiness to the tea.
- Slowly pour in hot water to dissolve the caramelized sugar. Stir to combine.
- Add black tea, cardamom pods, saffron, cloves, and any additional spices. Allow the mixture to boil and simmer for 5-7 minutes, releasing the fragrant aromas.
- Pour in evaporated milk and lower the heat. Simmer gently for another 8-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the tea to thicken slightly.
- Strain the tea into your favorite teapot or directly into cups to remove the spices. Serve hot.
Notes
- Experiment with Spices: Adjust the balance of cardamom, saffron, and cloves to suit your taste. You can also add cinnamon sticks or black pepper for a twist.
- Control Sweetness: If you prefer less sweet tea, reduce the sugar or caramelize it for just a few seconds for a milder flavor.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Since this recipe is simple, the quality of your tea, milk, and spices makes all the difference.