Spiced Tea with Milk (Qatari Karak Tea)

qatari-karaktea 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 flavours.

2 cups water
2 tsp. black tea, loose
½ tsp. cardamom, crushed or ground
2 cups whole milk, evaporated or condensed
sugar
cinnamon, saffron, ginger or cloves (optional)

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.

Savour your delicious Qatari karak tea.

Makes 2 servings.