Given the name I chose for this blog, I could hardly begin this section on Omani culture and traditions without an article about karak. Karak is to Oman what the croissant is to France. As such, you could hardly miss it if you decided to visit Oman.
Being used to the traditional cups of coffee or mint tea, I must admit that I was surprised when I first tasted it in 2018. But ever since, I have missed this drink enormously in my daily life: it is not easy to find in France.
Like coffee, it is a true symbol of sharing and conviviality among Omanis. Karak chai, or karak tea, is a blend of black tea, sugar, milk and spices such as cardamom. Found throughout the Gulf countries, it has its roots in Indian chai. A large Indian diaspora settled in the Gulf countries during the twentieth century, bringing with it its culinary traditions, including this famous tea. Its name comes from the Hindi word kadak, meaning “strong” or “robust”.
The links between India and Oman are, however, much older: Indian communities have been present in the Sultanate for several centuries, reflecting the commercial and cultural exchanges that unite the two countries.
Widely enjoyed by local Arab populations, karak has adapted to the tastes of the region. Omanis have notably added saffron, a luxurious spice widely found in Oman, the vast majority of which is imported from Iran.
This special, flavourful tea has therefore become part of my “routine” during my travels in Oman. The roads are sometimes long, and every break is an opportunity for a karak… Enjoying one by the sea is another pleasure not to be missed in this country where time sometimes seems to stand still.
© Croissant & Karak — Text and photographs by Faustine. All rights reserved. Reproduction or reuse requires prior permission, subject to legal exceptions.