Karak Coffee: A Bold, Spiced Taste of the Middle East
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Karak coffee—also known as Karak chai—is a beloved Middle Eastern drink that perfectly blends strong tea, bold spices, and creamy milk. Despite its name, Karak isn’t actually made from coffee beans, but it holds a special place in coffee culture for its rich flavour, energising warmth, and comforting aroma.
In this post, we’ll explore what Karak coffee is, how to make it at home, and why it has become a cultural favourite across the Gulf region and beyond.
What Is Karak Coffee?
Karak coffee, or Karak chai, originated in the Gulf countries, particularly in Qatar, the UAE, and Oman, where it’s served in cafés, roadside stands, and homes.
The name “Karak” comes from the Hindi word “kadak,” meaning strong—a nod to its robust, spicy, and sweet flavour.
Though often called “coffee,” Karak is actually a strong tea brewed with black tea leaves, spices like cardamom and cloves, evaporated or condensed milk, and sugar. Its bold, caffeinated kick makes it a satisfying alternative to coffee—especially for those who love rich, aromatic drinks.
How to Make Karak Coffee
Making Karak coffee is simple and rewarding. Here’s how to bring the taste of the Middle East into your kitchen:
Ingredients
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1 cup water
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1 cup milk (evaporated milk or full-fat for best flavour)
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2 tsp loose black tea (or 2 tea bags)
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2–3 cardamom pods (crushed)
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1 small cinnamon stick (optional)
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1 clove (optional)
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1–2 tsp sugar (to taste)
Method
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Boil the water: In a small saucepan, bring the water to a boil.
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Add the tea and spices: Stir in the black tea, cardamom, and optional spices. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes.
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Add the milk: Pour in the milk and reduce the heat to medium-low.
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Simmer: Allow it to simmer for another 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it turns a deep caramel colour and the aroma fills your kitchen.
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Strain and serve: Strain into small cups and enjoy piping hot.
💡 Tip: For extra richness, use sweetened condensed milk instead of sugar and evaporated milk.
The Cultural Significance of Karak Coffee
Karak coffee is more than just a drink—it’s part of daily social life in many Middle Eastern communities. It’s served at family gatherings, offered to guests as a gesture of hospitality, and enjoyed during long conversations.
From roadside tea stalls to luxury cafés, Karak is a drink that connects people, much like Cypriot coffee or Turkish coffee in other regions.
Karak Coffee vs Traditional Coffee
While traditional coffee (like espresso or drip) relies on roasted beans, Karak coffee derives its strength and flavour from black tea and spices. Both offer caffeine, but Karak provides a smoother, creamier taste with aromatic warmth from cardamom and clove.
If you enjoy a spiced latte or chai blend, Karak is the perfect fusion of comfort and caffeine.