Beverages, Hot, Middle Eastern Recipes

Adeni Chai (Yemeni Tea)

Three small glasses rest on a tray. The glasses are filled with Yemeni Tea.

To very few people, it is no more than an ordinary cup of tea, but, for tea lovers, it is an adventure into a dreamy wonderland. However, enjoying the delicacy of sipping a hearty cup of Adeni Chai or Yemeni Tea is something beyond description!

A steaming cup of Yemeni tea is not just a beverage. It is a soothing tradition that soon makes its way into the daily routine of tea fans. With a small bunch of authentic ingredients and a few simple steps, you will find yourself captivated in an enchanting area! The final product is a beverage that takes you on a savory journey through time and flavor.


Adeni Chai: A Legacy in a Cup

Cardamom pods are placed in a small plate near a tray with 3 glass cups of Yemeni Adeni Chai.
It has become a morning ritual to greet my day with Adeni Chai.


Yemeni Adeni Chai: A Staple of Culture and Tradition

Yemeni Adeni Chai, often simply referred to as “Adeni Tea,” is not a mere beverage. Rather, it is a cherished cornerstone of Yemen’s rich history and traditions. For centuries, sharing Adeni Chai has been a warm token of Yemeni hospitality. In Yemeni culture, serving this spiced tea to guests is a symbol of respect and warmth.

Beyond its delicious taste, Adeni Chai is almost always present in Yemeni social gatherings. It often acts as a connection between friends and family. In busy markets and cozy homes alike, it is very common to find groups of people gathered around a pot of simmering Adeni Chai. At so many times, they are engaged in lively conversations, sharing their daily experiences.

The preparation and serving of Adeni Chai are deeply rooted in the Yemeni heritage. In fact, each cup tells a story of culture and community. Families pass down their unique recipes and brewing techniques from generation to generation, making sure that Adeni Chai remains a valued custom.


Tea and Tales: Stories Over Yemeni Chai

Two small glasses appear side by side with a small spoon of fresh cardamom.
It’s time to get an intricate look at the brewing process where every step is a labor of love.

Living the Moment

Enjoying Yemeni Adeni Chai is a truly sensory experience. The moment you try your first cup, you will notice a rich blend of aromas. The spices, like cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves, create a warm, inviting scent that fills the air. Upon taking the first sip, your taste buds will experience a subtle sweetness as well as earthy notes from the tea leaves.

Yemeni Adeni Chai is perfect for a variety of settings. As you are sitting on your porch on a cool evening, you can enjoy a cup of this spiced tea as the sun sets. You can also share this unique tea with friends and family during gatherings.

So, whether you are seeking a moment of calmness or looking to connect with loved ones, Adeni Chai is a wonderful choice. It is not just offering a beverage but a symbol of comfort, tradition, and togetherness.


The Nostalgic Aroma of Yemeni Adeni Chai

Yemeni Adeni tea fills glasses on a bronze tray.
A close-up of the aromatic spices that give Adeni Chai its signature warmth and flavor.

Tips and Tricks for the Best Yemeni Adeni Chai

For optimal flavor, choose high-quality black tea leaves. They are the foundation of authentic Adeni Yemeni Chai.

Try to achieve harmony in flavor by carefully balancing cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon. Also, crushing the spices slightly before use can enhance their aroma and taste.

Adjust the sugar level to your preference, starting with a teaspoon and adding more if desired. Remember that Adeni Chai can be enjoyed with varying degrees of sweetness.

For a depth of flavors, manage the brewing time. Let the tea simmer over very low heat for a longer period of time if you prefer an intensified taste.


Frequently Asked Questions

How can I achieve the perfect balance of spices?

Careful measurement and a balanced mix of cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon create the perfect spice blend.

Is it essential to simmer the spices and tea leaves?

Yes, simmering over low heat is crucial to infuse the flavors thoroughly.

Is Adeni Yemeni Tea suitable for all occasions?

Yes, it can be enjoyed casually or during special gatherings. Its versatility makes it a crowd-pleaser.

Is milk necessary for Adeni Chai?

No, milk is optional, but adding it yields a creamy texture and a richer taste.


Tiny Spice, Big Impact

Two glasses are put on a tray. One glass has a teaspoon in it while both cups have Adeni chai.
Watch as the black tea leaves release their essence into the brew, transforming it into Adeni Chai.

Simple Ingredients of the Yemeni Adeni Chai

Water: It is essential for brewing, and it forms the base of this aromatic tea.

Sugar: While it adds sweetness to the chai, sugar is customizable to taste.

Ground Cardamom: Ground cardamom brings a unique and aromatic flavor to the tea.

Nutmeg: A pinch of nutmeg enriches the spices with a distinct warmth.

Cloves: They complement the special taste of the tea.

Black Tea Bags or Loose Black Tea: The heart of the chai, it provides depth of flavor.


Easy Steps

Start by mixing the water and sugar into your teapot.

Then, add the tea bags or loose tea and the spices, and let it boil for 5 minutes.

After that, turn off the heat and let it steep for another 5-8 minutes.

Once the steeping is complete, remove both the tea bags (or loose tea) and the whole spices to extract the infused flavors.

Next, add in the evaporated milk and mix it thoroughly to create a creamy texture.

Now, return the teapot to the stove and heat it over medium-low heat for another 3-5 minutes until the chai is fully heated and starts to bubble gently.

Finally, remove the teapot from the heat and serve the aromatic Yemeni Adeni Chai. You can offer additional sugar for individuals to adjust the sweetness according to their preferences.


Other Recipes to Try:

Quick and Easy Instant Iced Coffee

Mint Lemonade (Limonana)

Coffee Banana Shake

Karak Chai

Middle Eastern Mint Tea (Shai Bi Na’Na)

Oreo Milkshake Recipe

Sahlab Dessert Recipe

Rich White Hot Chocolate Recipe

Qater (Sheera)


If you’ve tried this recipe, don’t forget to rate it and leave a comment below! I would love to hear about your experience. You can follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.


A wooden spoon leans beside a bronze tray. On top of the tray, there are 3 Arabic glasses containing Yemeni tea.

Adeni Chai (Yemeni Tea)

Fatimah
Adeni Chai, also known as Yemeni tea, is a deliciously spiced tea that is popular in Yemen and the Aden region. It is made with black tea and a blend of aromatic spices that work together to offer an experience of enchantment and toothsomeness.
5 from 1 vote
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Beverages, Drinks
Cuisine Middle Eastern, Yemeni
Servings 4
Calories 2 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • cups water
  • Sugar according to taste, I used 2 tablespoons
  • 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
  • Pinch nutmeg
  • 2 cloves
  • 4 black tea bags or 2 tablespoons loose black tea
  • 1 5-ounce evaporated milk can about ½ a cup

Instructions
 

  • Mix the water and sugar into your teapot.
  • Add the tea bags or loose tea and the spices, and let it boil for 5 minutes.
  • Turn off the heat and let it steep another 5-8 minutes.
  • Remove the tea bags or loose tea and the whole spices.
  • Add in the evaporated milk and mix.
  • Return to stove for another 3-5 minutes on medium low until fully heated, and bubbly.
  • Remove and serve with some more sugar to taste.

Notes

  • For optimal flavor, choose high quality black tea leaves. They are the foundation of authentic Adeni Yemeni Chai.
  • Try to achieve harmony in flavor by carefully balancing cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon. Also, crushing the spices slightly before use can enhance their aroma and taste.
  • Adjust the sugar level to your preference, starting with a teaspoon and adding more if desired. Remember that Adeni Chai can be enjoyed with varying degrees of sweetness.
  • For a depth of flavors, manage the brewing time. Let the tea simmer over very low heat for a longer period of time if you prefer an intensified taste.

Nutrition

Calories: 2kcalCarbohydrates: 0.4gProtein: 0.1gFat: 0.04gSaturated Fat: 0.01gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.01gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.01gSodium: 14mgPotassium: 7mgFiber: 0.2gSugar: 0.003gVitamin A: 0.2IUVitamin C: 0.1mgCalcium: 11mgIron: 0.1mg
Keyword easy, Middle Eastern, quick, spicy tea, warm beverage
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