Sulaimani Tea | Sulaimani Chai
Sulaimani tea, a spiced tea from India, is a well-known beverage in the Malabar region that has its roots in Arab culture. It is said that Sulaimani tea originated from an Arab tradition. In this guide, we will discover how to prepare Sulaimani tea with helpful images and a video tutorial.

I was introduced to Sulaimani Tea while watching the movie Ustad Hotel a long time ago. When I rewatched the movie recently, for the sake of one of my favorite actors, it sparked a desire to try it. And now, here I am.
About Sulaimani Tea
Sulaimani Tea is thought to have originated from the Arab tradition, but it has become popular in the Malabar region. According to legend, Prophet Mohammed enjoyed a drink called “ghava” which was made with dates and black pepper, without any tea or sugar. Over time, this drink evolved and was introduced to the Malabar coast by Arab traders. As it spread, the taste and ingredients changed, eventually incorporating tea and becoming a popular drink in the Malabar region known as Sulaimani Tea.
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Sulaimani Tea and Ustad Hotel are both highly popular.
Although this type of tea was already famous in Malabar, it gained even more popularity after its appearance in the well-known Malayalam movie “Ustad Hotel.” In the movie, the bond between a grandfather and grandson from different generations is strengthened through their shared love for this tea. In one scene, the grandson asks his grandfather what makes this drink so special, and the grandfather replies that “Every sulaimani needs a touch of love, and when you drink it, the world should slow down and come to a standstill.” As a fan of Dulquer myself, I had been wanting to try this tea for a while, and I am happy to say that I finally did.
Sulaimani Tea Video
Sulaimani Tea Ingredients
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This recipe calls for the use of spices such as cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, and ginger.
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This tea uses regular water for drinking instead of milk.
- Sweetener – Normal white sugar is preferred but you can use cane sugar or brown sugar too.
- Lemon – Lemon adds a nice tangy flavor to this tea.

Sulaimani Tea Recipe Step by Step
Add four 1/4 inch pieces of cinnamon, two cardamom pods, and two cloves to a mortar and pestle.

Break it into smaller pieces roughly. This step is not necessary, but you may choose to include it as is.

In a saucepan, pour in 2 cups of water and allow it to reach a vigorous boil.

Next, incorporate the ground spices.

Mix in 1 teaspoon of grated ginger and 1 tablespoon of sugar.

Mix quickly.

Allow it to boil for a few minutes.

Add 1 teaspoon of tea powder. If you prefer a weaker taste, only add 1/2 teaspoon.

Stir the mixture thoroughly and allow it to simmer for 2 minutes.

The shade transforms into a rich, reddish-brown hue. Turn off.

11. Shut down and allow it to sit for a minute to allow the flavors to infuse.

Use a metal strainer to strain the mixture. Dispose of any leftover solids.

Mix in the juice of half a lemon.

14.Mix it well.

Pour the mixture into a glass and serve it while it is hot!

The sulaimani tea with added spices is now prepared and hot!

Expert Tips
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Modify the amount of sugar to your liking, but ensure that it is well balanced since we will also be incorporating lemon juice.
- You can also crush and add cardamom. I simply opened the outer covering halfway and added it.
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If you prefer a gentle tea, incorporate 1/2 teaspoon of tea powder.
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Ensure not to exceed the recommended amount of spice or it may become overpowering.
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Ensure thorough boiling to fully incorporate the spices and tea flavor.
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You have the option to add saffron and mint for a diverse taste.
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You have the option to substitute white sugar with either jaggery powder or cane sugar.
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After straining, you can finally add both sugar and lemon juice.
FAQS
What is the definition of Sulaimani Tea?
Sulaimani tea is a variation of black tea that is infused with spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and ginger. It is typically prepared without milk and has a golden hue. A small amount of lemon is often added as a finishing touch.
What is the reasoning behind naming it Sulaimani Tea?
The name ‘Sulaiman’ has its origins in Arabic, meaning ‘man of peace’. Local residents of the Malabar region gave this name to a particular tea due to their friendly relations with the Arabs. As time passed, this tea came to be known as ‘Sulaimani Tea’ or ‘Sulaimani Chai’.
When is the soonest we can enjoy Sulaimani Tea?
Sulaimani tea is traditionally consumed as a digestive aid following a hearty meal, particularly after enjoying Muslim biryani during celebrations. As a result, it has become a staple on marriage menus. However, I believe this warm and comforting Sulaimani tea can be enjoyed on any day.
Is Sulaimani Tea beneficial for one’s health?
Black tea is commonly considered to be a healthier option, and this particular spiced tea is known to aid digestion and can potentially help regulate cholesterol levels as well.
Which type of tea powder should be used?
I utilized powdered dust tea, but you can also use tea leaves or tea bags. The dominant taste comes from the added spices, and the tea powder is simply a supplement.

If you have any further inquiries regarding the Sulaimani Tea Recipe, please email me at [email protected]. Additionally, you can also find me on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, Youtube, and Twitter.
Have you tried making Sulaimani Tea? If so, please share your thoughts on how it turned out. Don’t forget to tag us on Instagram @sharmispassions and use the hashtag #sharmispassions.
📖 Recipe Card

Sulaimani Tea or Sulaimani Chai
Sulaimani Tea, a spiced tea from India, has gained popularity in the Malabar region and has its roots traced back to the Arabs. It is said that the tradition of Arab is responsible for the creation of Sulaimani Tea. In this tutorial, we will explore the process of making Sulaimani Tea with detailed pictures and a video guide.
Ingredients
- 2 cups water
- 1 teaspoon ginger grated
- 2 nos cloves
- four 1/4 inch cinnamon
- 2 nos cardamom
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon tea powder
Instructions
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Add 4 1/4-inch pieces of cinnamon, 2 cardamom pods, and 2 cloves to a mortar and pestle.
-
Break it up roughly. This step is not necessary, but you can include it if desired.
-
In a saucepan, pour 2 cups of water and allow it to reach a vigorous boil.
-
Next, incorporate the ground spices.
-
Stir in 1 teaspoon of grated ginger and 1 tablespoon of sugar.
-
Mix quickly.
-
Allow it to simmer for a few minutes.
-
Mix in 1 teaspoon of tea powder. For a milder taste, add only 1/2 teaspoon.
-
Stir the mixture thoroughly and allow it to simmer for 2 minutes.
-
The hue transforms into a rich reddish-brown shade. Turn off.
-
Allow it to sit for a minute, allowing the flavors to fully infuse.
-
Use a metal strainer to strain out any solids. Dispose of the leftover material.
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Squeeze half a lemon and add the juice.
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Mix it well.
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Pour the contents into a glass and serve while hot!
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Ready to enjoy some hot and spicy sulaimani tea!
Video
Notes
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Adjust the amount of sugar to your liking, but keep in mind to balance it out since we will also be adding lemon juice.
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You can also crush and add cardamom. I simply partially opened the outer casing and added it.
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Avoid adding excessive spices beyond the recommended amount to prevent an overpowering flavor.
-
Ensure thorough boiling to properly infuse the spices and tea flavor.
-
You can also include saffron and mint for a diverse taste.
-
You have the option to swap out white sugar for either jaggery powder or cane sugar.
-
After straining, you can add both sugar and lemon juice to the mixture.
Nutrition
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