How to Make Arabic-Style Karak Tea; A Quick and Easy Recipe with a Warm Nature and Rich Flavor

Wednesday, July 08, 2026

SAEDNEWS: Karak tea originates from Arab countries and is loved for its rich flavor and pleasant taste. Made with tea, milk, sugar, and spices, it is a popular traditional beverage.

How to Make Arabic-Style Karak Tea; A Quick and Easy Recipe with a Warm Nature and Rich Flavor

According to Saednews, Karak tea is a popular beverage made with a blend of black tea, milk (or evaporated milk), and warming spices. It is sweetened with sugar and sometimes caramel, creating a rich and aromatic drink with a smooth texture and distinctive flavor.

Ingredients for Making Karak Tea

  • 2 cups milk

  • 2 star anise pods

  • 6 cloves

  • 6 cups water

  • A pinch of saffron

  • 6 cardamom pods

  • Sugar as needed

  • 2 tablespoons black tea

  • A small amount of fresh ginger, according to taste

  • 2 small cinnamon sticks

Preparation Time

20 minutes

Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing Karak Tea

  1. Pour the water into a kettle or pot and place it over medium heat until it begins to boil.

  2. Once the water boils, add the sugar and stir well.

  3. Add the black tea and mix it with the boiling water.

  4. Add the cardamom pods, which give Karak tea its unique and delightful aroma.

  5. Add the cloves and stir the mixture.

  6. Add the star anise and continue stirring.

  7. Place the cinnamon sticks into the tea mixture.

  8. Grate the fresh ginger and add it to the tea.

  9. Add the saffron and allow its flavor and color to blend into the drink.

  10. Reduce the heat and let the tea simmer for about 20 minutes.

  11. Add the milk and allow the tea to boil gently for another 10 minutes until it becomes rich and well combined.

  12. Once the Karak tea reaches a smooth consistency, strain it through a tea strainer and pour it into serving glasses.

  13. Serve the Karak tea hot and enjoy its rich, spicy flavor.

Important Tips for Making Perfect Karak Tea

  • In the traditional Karak tea recipe, evaporated milk is often used instead of regular milk. However, since it may not be available everywhere, regular milk can also be used.

  • To store Karak tea, strain it and keep it in a thermos to maintain its warmth.

  • Be careful when adding milk, as it can easily overflow while boiling. Keep an eye on the pot after adding milk.

  • If camel milk is available in your country, using it can make Karak tea richer and more flavorful.

  • Honey can be used instead of sugar as a natural sweetener.

  • If star anise is unavailable, it can be omitted, although it adds a special depth of flavor to the tea.

  • Dried ginger can be used as a substitute for fresh ginger.

  • For decoration, sprinkle cinnamon powder, cocoa powder, or grated chocolate on top of the tea.

  • The quantity of ingredients can be adjusted according to personal taste.

Arabic Karak Tea: A Traditional Spiced Drink with a Rich Aroma and Comforting Taste

Karak tea is more than just a beverage; it is a symbol of hospitality and a beloved part of tea culture in many Arab countries. With its combination of fragrant spices, creamy milk, and strong black tea, this warm drink is perfect for relaxing moments and social gatherings.