Habibi's Tea Recipe

Bring water and spices to a simmer

Pour 960 ml water into a medium saucepan. Add the lightly crushed cardamom pods, whole cloves, cinnamon stick, and the strip of lemon peel. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 6 minutes to release aromatics.

Brew the tea

Add 4 tsp Assam tea leaves to the spiced simmering water. Turn off the heat and let the tea steep, covered, for 4–5 minutes for a strong infusion. Taste after 4 minutes and extend to 5 if you prefer a bolder cup.

Strain the infusion

Strain the spiced tea through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean saucepan or heatproof bowl, discarding the solids (cardamom pods, cloves, cinnamon stick, lemon peel, and used leaves).

Finish with milk

Pour 240 ml whole milk into the strained tea and gently reheat over low heat until just warmed through (do not boil) so milk integrates with the tea.

While reheating with milk, stir in 3 tbs granulated sugar until fully dissolved. Remove from heat and add 1 tsp orange blossom water, stirring gently to combine. Taste and adjust sweetness or orange blossom water by small increments if desired.

Ladle the tea into warmed cups. If using, add a pinch of dried rose petals on top for aroma and color. Offer honey on the side for guests who prefer a different sweetener.