Karak Chai (Indian Strong Tea) Recipe
Karak Chai is a rich and aromatic Indian strong tea made by simmering black tea with fragrant spices like cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and ginger, then enriched with creamy evaporated milk and a touch of sugar. This comforting tea is perfect for a flavorful, energizing break or to enjoy with snacks.
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Total Time: 8 minutes
- Yield: 3 servings
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients
Spices and Flavorings
- 4 whole cardamom pods, crushed
- 2 whole cloves
- 2 slices of ginger (about 1 inch each)
- 2 inch stick of cinnamon
Tea and Liquids
- 2 1/2 cups water
- 4 black tea bags
- 6 tablespoons evaporated milk
- 4 teaspoons sugar
Instructions
- Boil Spices: In a saucepan, add 2 1/2 cups water along with 2 slices of ginger, 2 inch cinnamon stick, 4 crushed cardamom pods, and 2 cloves. Bring this mixture to a boil to infuse the water with the aromatic spices.
- Add Tea and Sugar: Once boiling, add 4 teaspoons sugar and 4 black tea bags to the saucepan. Reduce heat and simmer gently for 1 minute to extract the tea flavor and dissolve the sugar.
- Steep Tea: Turn off the heat and cover the saucepan. Let the tea steep for 1 minute, allowing the flavors to fully develop and intensify.
- Add Milk and Boil: Stir in 6 tablespoons of evaporated milk. Bring the tea back to a boil and let it boil for 1 minute to mix in the creamy milk and enhance the flavor and texture.
- Strain and Serve: Strain the tea into cups, removing the tea bags and spices, and serve hot for a robust and flavorful Karak Chai experience.
Notes
- You can adjust the sugar according to your taste preference.
- Use evaporated milk for a creamy texture; regular milk can be substituted but will alter flavor and richness.
- The simmering and boiling steps help develop the strong flavor traditional in Karak Chai.
- Serve immediately for best taste since the tea is best fresh and hot.
