Karak Chai, a popular Middle Eastern tea, is a strong, sweet brew infused with spices like cardamom and saffron, often served with condensed milk. Originating from the Indian subcontinent, it gained popularity in the Arabian Peninsula and beyond for its rich flavor and aromatic profile. The recipe blends centuries-old traditions with regional variations, becoming a beloved staple in cafes and households worldwide.

Ingredients :

- 2 cups water

- 2 black tea bags

- 2 cups whole milk

- 4 green cardamom pods, crushed

- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

- 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads

- 2 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)

- Condensed milk (optional, for serving)

Method:

1. In a saucepan, bring water to a boil.

2. Add tea bags, crushed cardamom pods, ground cinnamon, and saffron threads.

3. Let it simmer for 5 minutes.

4. Add milk and sugar, stir well, and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.

5. Strain the tea into cups.

6. Optionally, add condensed milk for extra sweetness.

7. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Karak Chai!

Nutrition Value:

1. Water:

  - Calories: 0

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Sodium: 0mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: None

  - Nutritional Benefits: Hydration, essential for bodily functions.

2. Black Tea Bags:

  - Calories: 0

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Sodium: 0mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Antioxidants like catechins, flavonoids.

  - Nutritional Benefits: Boosts heart health, improves focus, may aid weight loss.

3. Whole Milk:

  - Calories: Approximately 150 per cup

  - Carbohydrates: 12g

  - Protein: 8g

  - Fat: 8g

  - Sodium: 100mg

  - Cholesterol: 24mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Calcium, Vitamin D, Vitamin B12, Phosphorus

  - Nutritional Benefits: Provides essential nutrients for bone health, muscle repair, and overall growth.

4. Green Cardamom Pods (4 pods, crushed):

  - Calories: Approximately 6

  - Carbohydrates: 1.4g

  - Protein: 0.2g

  - Fat: 0.1g

  - Sodium: 1.6mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Vitamin C, Iron, Magnesium, Potassium

  - Nutritional Benefits: Aids digestion, freshens breath, may help with oral health.

5. Ground Cinnamon (1/4 teaspoon):

  - Calories: Approximately 1

  - Carbohydrates: 0.4g

  - Protein: 0.1g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Sodium: 0mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Calcium, Iron, Vitamin K

  - Nutritional Benefits: Anti-inflammatory properties, may help regulate blood sugar.

6. Saffron Threads (1/4 teaspoon):

  - Calories: Approximately 2

  - Carbohydrates: 0.5g

  - Protein: 0.1g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Sodium: 1.3mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Vitamin C, Manganese

  - Nutritional Benefits: Antioxidant properties, may improve mood and alleviate symptoms of depression.

7. Sugar (2 tablespoons):

  - Calories: Approximately 30

  - Carbohydrates: 8g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Sodium: 0mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: None

  - Nutritional Benefits: Provides quick energy, enhances flavor.

8. Condensed Milk (2 tablespoons, optional):

  - Calories: Approximately 120

  - Carbohydrates: 20g

  - Protein: 3g

  - Fat: 3g

  - Sodium: 50mg

  - Cholesterol: 15mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Calcium, Vitamin D

  - Nutritional Benefits: Adds creaminess and sweetness, provides calcium and vitamin D.