Re-energise wth a cup of karak chai

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The fragrant beverage is packed with goodness to keep you up and running throughout the day.

By Rohma Sadaqat

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Published: Fri 30 Oct 2020, 3:59 PM

Last updated: Mon 2 Nov 2020, 12:38 PM

With mornings getting chillier by the day, it is a great idea to take the time to make yourself a big breakfast in the morning, which will keep you going for a good portion of the day. And, if you need just a little bit extra energy, maybe swap your daily cup of coffee with a cup of karak chai?

The drink has been steadily growing in popularity across the UAE, and is now a permanent fixture on the country's F&B scene. You will find it being served everywhere; from the menus of high-end restaurants to small cozy tea shops, and even tiny little street shops that sell nothing but different variations of it for a few dirhams. So, what exactly is it about the drink that has cemented its position as one of the favourite hot beverages of choice across the emirates?


One of the reasons why it is such a celebrated drink is because of its versatility. The most basic recipe calls for the drink to be prepared with loose black tea leaves, milk, cardamom, and sugar. The tea is strong to the point that many people will only go for one small cup of it. It is when you add the final ingredient that you end up with something really delicious in a cup. Karak chai calls for several crushed spices to be added and, depending on which part of the world you are from, these can vary. Some of the most popular spices include saffron, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and orange peel. The truly decadent versions contain a crushed mixture of all of these.

While many people might hesitate to call it a 'healthy drink' based on the fact that it contains sugar (some places make it using sweetened condensed milk), the truth of the matter is that the sweetness is present to balance the robustness of the spices; you can make the tea without the sugar, and some people even prefer it this way.


Compared to a cup of coffee, karak chai has considerably less caffeine, yet the drink will keep you charged enough for the majority of your day. The spices in the drink will also aid in digestion, which is why it is considered to be the perfect way to end a large meal. The ginger and cinnamon are responsible for lowering your blood pressure and cholesterol levels, as well as reducing the risk of heart disease. The cardamom also helps to bolster your immune system. So, the next time you get a craving for something warm to help fight of the chill of the winter months, make yourself a cup of karak chai, but maybe hold the sugar?

CHEMASE TEA

Single origin organic from Kenya

BROKEN BLACK TEA

Blend from China regions of Yunnan, Guangdong, Hainan and Guangxi

GINGER

Strong spicy from Northern Africa

GREEN CARDAMOM

Premium potent from Guatemala


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