What is Karak Chai?
Karak Chai comes from the word “kadak,” which means strong in South Asian culture.
It’s a bold, full-bodied tea brewed with extra tea leaves and fewer spices, giving it a deeper, sharper flavour than regular masala chai.
This strong chai is balanced with creamy richness — often made using milk, sugar, cream or even condensed milk. The result is a smooth, sweet, and powerful cup that cuts through the richness perfectly. Today, Karak Chai is one of the most loved drinks across the Middle East and South Asia.
In India, this same drink is known as Kadak Chai, served across roadside stalls, train stations, and neighbourhood chai shops. The flavour, simplicity and comfort of this chai travelled across borders and became the “Karak Chai” enjoyed throughout the Gulf.
Karak Chai Spices
Cardamom
Sweet, aromatic & flavourful
Cinnamon
Warm, slightly sweet, and comforting.
The magic of Karak Chai is in its simplicity.
Just strong tea and cardamom can create a beautiful cup, but over the years, chai makers across India and the Middle East began experimenting with spices like ginger, cinnamon and saffron to add richness.
At Karak Chai Fremont, our recipe is refined to perfection — a blend of strong tea, cardamom, and a touch of cinnamon for a creamy, smooth, and balanced taste.
The origins of karak chai
The story of Karak Chai began long before it reached modern cafés. In the 19th century, when tea plantations spread across India, local chaiwalas started experimenting with tea, milk, sugar, and simple spices — creating the first versions of the strong, comforting chai we know today.
As travellers and workers carried this tradition to the Gulf, the drink evolved. What began as kadak chai soon took on a new life as Karak Chai — stronger, creamier, and instantly comforting. It became more than a beverage. It became a ritual. A way to welcome guests, spark conversations, and create moments that felt like home.
Today, whether it’s served in a roadside stall in Karachi, a bustling tea shop in Doha, or a cosy café in Dubai, the meaning remains the same:
Karak Chai is warmth.
Karak Chai is connection.
Karak Chai is home in a cup.
Karak chai vs kadak chai
Kadak or Karak? They’re actually the same chai. The difference is simply pronunciation. In the Middle East, the ‘r’ fits naturally in the way people speak, while in India the ‘d’ feels more familiar.
So if you’re visiting us for Karak Chai and notice we use the spelling with a ‘d’, don’t worry — the taste is authentic, the recipe is true, and it’s the same Karak you grew up with and love.
Karak Chai
"Probably the best chai you can SIP"
Our Karak Chai Blend
Our Karak Chai is crafted fresh at Karak Chai Fremont using real spices and high-quality tea.
Every cup follows a recipe inspired by authentic South Asian traditions:
Fresh milk
Strong Assam tea
Real cardamom
A hint of cinnamon
Slow-brew method
The flavours are bold, creamy, and comforting — exactly how Karak Chai is meant to be enjoyed.