Karak Chai - A beloved tradition, an emotional embrace of the soul - Eats and Treats by Tania Rebello

TDT | Manama                                                      

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

Originating from the Indian subcontinent, karak chai, meaning ‘strong tea’ has become a tradition rather than an ordinary cup of tea.

This popular blend of black tea leaves, spices, milk and sugar has won the hearts of scores of people from several parts of the world. Indian traders gifted the recipe for this heartwarming drink to their Bahraini friends.

It is fascinating to see patrons in Bahrain relishing karak chai. Scores of people line up each day at karak chai outlets to lay their hands on a piping hot cuppa.

The silky smooth cup of golden brown chai infuses a vibrant punch from cardamom and spices into the whole milk, all tied together with the sweetness from sugar.

Preparing karak chai involves brewing tea leaves and spices while the sugar caramelizes to form the addictive beverage. The caffeine provides an invigorating kick.

The brew is also a symbol of love and care. A group of friends may share a pot of tea and enjoy it over conversations.

Make a cup of karak chai for your family or friends and watch their hearts melt.

Prepare karak chai during Ramadan to get a boost of energy.

Karak Chai Recipe Ingredients:

• 1 cup evaporated milk or whole milk

• 2 cups water

• 3 teaspoons tea black loose

• 2 teaspoons sugar

• 5 cardamom pods crushed

• ½ inch cinnamon bark

• 1 tablespoon ginger grated

Instructions:

• Boil water in a kettle and pour in the saucepan or directly boil the water in a saucepan over the stovetop.

• Crush the spices 5 cardamom pods, 1/2 inch cinnamon bark, 1 tablespoon ginger

• Add cardamom, cinnamon, ginger and tea to the water.

• Bring it to a boil, then add 1 cup evaporated milk

• Then add 2 teaspoon sugar

• Let the mixture come to a rolling boil and let the tea boil for at least 3-4 minutes.

• Once you see the tea has a dark caramel colour and thickens, turn off the heat.

• Using a tea strainer, pour the tea into cups and enjoy