Qatari karak tea is a true staple. It was likely brought to the country by workers who arrived back in the 1950’s from India and Pakistan. This type of spiced milky tea is popular in many regions of the world and Qatar is no exception. In fact in Qatar you will find karak tea shops that are open 24 hours. These shops are always busy with men running out to serve their karak tea, just how their customers like it. All you have to do is honk and they will come take your order and serve it to you.
In Qatar cardamom is the most used spice in the karak tea however some people like to add also cinnamon, saffron, cloves and ginger. The cardamom is believed to have many health benefits. It is said to relieve bloating, heartburn, nausea, and reduces inflammation in the body as well as lowers blood pressure. No wonder the Qatari people love their tea!
The milk is also a preference, it could be regular milk, sweetened condensed milk or evaporated milk. Sugar is also added to taste. It is really easy to make but it should be boiled up and simmered three times before straining and serving to intensify the flavors.
I made it with evaporated milk and just cardamom for my husband and I enjoyed mine Plant Paradox compliant, with unsweetened almond milk, all the spices and stevia to sweeten it. We both adored the delicious karak tea and it was a perfect ending to our Qatari International Cuisine meal.
Qatari karak tea is a perfect pick me up beverage, it is loved in the mornings to start the day, or to relax after a hard one, or just to enjoy with family and friends. It is a Qatari way to welcome you and show their kind hospitality. Why not enjoy a little Qatari tradition with an easy to make cup of Qatari karak tea?
I would love to hear how you enjoy yours, do you like it with all the spices or a select few, what kind of milk do you use? Please let me know in the comments below?
Did you know that Qatar is one of the few places in the world where they still practice falconry? If you would like to learn about this little and wealthy nation called Qatar be sure to check out “Our Journey to Qatar“.
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Qatari Karak Tea (Spiced Tea with Milk)
Ingredients
- 2 cups water
- 2 teaspoons Black tea loose
- 1/2 teaspoon cardamom crushed or ground
- 2 cups milk regular, evaporate or condensed
- sugar to taste
- cinnamon, saffron, ginger or cloves optional
Instructions
- Boil the water in a saucepan with the loose black tea and cardamom.
- Once it boils, add the milk and sugar if you are using. Also if you are adding additional spices, add them in now.
- Boil again and then simmer, and repeat two more times
- Pour the tea into a cup through a strainer.
- Savor your delicious Qatari karak tea
Nutrition
