What is Karak Chai? All You Need to Know

If you’ve ever had a sip of chai and thought, "Whoa, this one’s got a kick!"—you’ve probably tasted Karak Chai.

It’s bold. It’s creamy. It’s comforting. And it’s seriously having a moment.

Whether you’re already a traditional chai enthusiast or just exploring the world of tea beyond the basic brew, Karak Chai is one of those cups worth getting to know. In this guide, we’ll break down everything: from what Karak Chai is made of and how it compares to Masala chai, to its health benefits, how to make it, and where to find the best ingredients.

Karak Chai vs Regular Chai: What’s the Difference?

Let’s get this out of the way first: Karak Chai is not the same as regular chai (or another name, masala chai). But they are part of the same delicious family.

What is Karak Chai?

Karak means "strong" in Hindi, and that definition holds true in the cup. Originating in the Gulf region, Karak Chai is a bold and creamy variation of Indian tea, made with a few distinct ingredients and techniques.

While Masala chai is known for its complex spice blend - think cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, black pepper, and more - Karak Chai takes a simpler route.

How Karak Chai differs from regular or masala Chai

1. Strength and Flavour: Karak Chai is brewed with a higher quantity of black tea leaves, resulting in a deeper, more intense flavour compared to regular chai.

2. Spice Profile: While masala chai is known for its complex blend of spices—such as cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, and black pepper—Karak Chai usually features just one or two spices. Cardamom is the most common, sometimes complemented by star anise.

3. Sweetness and Creaminess: Karak Chai is typically sweeter and creamier. It's often made with condensed or evaporated milk, which adds a rich texture and taste that distinguishes it from traditional Indian chai.

4. Appearance: Expect a rich, caramel-like color from Karak Chai, a visual cue of its stronger brew and added milk. In contrast, regular chai is usually lighter in tone.

If you’ve ever wondered "What does chai taste like?", Karak’s taste would land somewhere between traditional Indian masala chai and a creamy café-style latte, enhanced by subtle aromatic spices.

What is Karak Chai made of?

The beauty of Karak Chai is in its simplicity. Here’s a look at the ingredients commonly used:

• High-quality black tea (Assam is a great choice)

• Milk or evaporated milk

• Cardamom (essential!)

• Optional: Star anise, ginger, saffron, or even rose petals

• Sugar or honey to sweeten

Depending on your preferences, you can go minimalist or spice things up. And yes, if you’re into experimenting, you can turn your Karak into a Dirty chai (by adding a shot of espresso) or a Sticky chai (with honey and whole spices cooked down into a syrupy mix).

Benefits of Karak chai

Karak Chai doesn’t just taste amazing—it comes with real health perks, too. That’s thanks to its star ingredients:

Black Tea: Rich in polyphenols and flavonoids, black tea has been shown to support heart health, gut health, and immune function. A study in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition noted its potential to lower blood pressure and cholesterol [1].

Cardamom: A spice used for centuries in Ayurvedic and Tibetan medicine, cardamom offers antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and digestion-boosting properties. It’s also a natural source of vitamin C [2].

Ginger: Known for aiding digestion and reducing nausea, ginger is also anti-inflammatory. Research in Phytotherapy Research confirms its effectiveness for digestive issues and boosting circulation [3].

Star Anise: Though used less frequently, star anise adds a licorice-like flavor and packs antibacterial properties. It’s rich in shikimic acid, a compound used in antiviral treatments.

Need another reason to enjoy it? Brewing and sipping a hot cup of Karak can also be a calming ritual - a cosy daily mindfulness practice.

How to make Karak Chai (at home)

If you already know how to make a cup of tea, you’re halfway there. Making Karak Chai at home is just as easy - except it’s a little richer, a little bolder, and a whole lot more satisfying.

Below, we’ve included two easy Karak Chai recipes - one for beginners using pantry staples, and another using our Monk’s Chai blend for something a little more elevated.

Beginner-Friendly Karak Chai Recipe

This version keeps things simple, but still delivers that iconic Karak flavour. Perfect for mornings, rainy afternoons, or anytime you need a warm, grounding cup.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup water

• 1 tsp loose-leaf black tea (Assam is ideal)

• ¼ cup milk (or evaporated milk for a creamy twist)

• 1–2 crushed cardamom pods

• Sweetener of choice: sugar, honey, or jaggery

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan, bring the water to a light boil.

2. Add black tea and crushed cardamom. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.

3. Pour in the milk and sweetener. Let it simmer for another 5–8 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Once it develops a rich caramel color, strain and serve hot.

Want a little more depth? Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or star anise for an aromatic twist.

Where to Buy Karak Chai Ingredients  

If you're looking to buy quality Karak Chai ingredients, start with trusted South Asian or Asian grocery stores for staples like cardamom and cinnamon. 

For convenience and full flavour, try a wet chai blend like Monk’s Chai Specialty —made with fresh black tea and spices, 100% organic, and sustainably sourced from India, Sri Lanka, Mexico, Indonesia, and Jamaica. You can get our Monk’s organic specialty chai blend at our official shop..

Monk’s Chai Karak Chai Recipe

This version uses our Monk’s Chai wet blend, which includes freshly ground spices and premium tea, already perfectly balanced. It's ideal for when you want café-quality Karak at home—no spice measuring needed.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup water

• 1 tsp Monk’s Chai blend

• ¼ cup evaporated milk (or oat milk for dairy-free option)

• 1 tsp honey or natural sweetener

• Optional: pinch of fresh ginger, dried rosebud, or extra cardamom pod for depth

Instructions:

1. Boil the water in a saucepan.

2. Stir in Monk’s Chai and simmer for 1–2 minutes.

3. Add evaporated milk and continue simmering for 5–8 minutes until the mixture is aromatic and frothy.

4. Strain and enjoy warm—ideally with a good book or quiet moment.

This is a go-to recipe for those who love a strong yet smooth chai without the hassle of collecting every spice. If you're someone who enjoys exploring Dirty Chai, Sticky Chai, or even experimenting with modern chai twists, Monk’s Chai is a versatile base to build on.