Shay Adeni – Traditional Yemeni Milk Tea with Cardamom and Ginger

 

Shay Adeni, or **Yemeni milk tea**, is a rich and aromatic hot beverage beloved across Yemen and the Gulf region. This comforting drink blends black tea with milk and warm spices like cardamom and ginger, creating a creamy and fragrant tea that’s both energizing and soothing. It is often compared to Indian chai but has a unique Middle Eastern flavor profile, rooted in Yemeni culture and hospitality.

📜 History and Cultural Significance

Originating in the port city of Aden, Shay Adeni became a staple drink for Yemeni families and has since spread to neighboring countries such as Saudi Arabia, Oman, and the UAE. It’s commonly served for breakfast or afternoon tea and is closely associated with comfort, family, and traditional gatherings.

🧂 Ingredients

• Black tea leaves or tea bags (preferably strong Assam or Ceylon)
• Whole milk (or evaporated milk for richness)
• Water
• Cardamom pods (crushed)
• Fresh ginger slices or ground ginger
• Cloves (optional)
• Cinnamon stick (optional)
• Sugar (to taste)

☕ How to Prepare Shay Adeni

1. In a saucepan, bring water to a boil with crushed cardamom and sliced ginger (add cloves or cinnamon if using).
2. Add black tea and simmer for 2–3 minutes until the water darkens.
3. Pour in the milk and bring to a gentle boil, stirring to blend the flavors.
4. Sweeten with sugar to taste and let simmer for another 2–3 minutes.
5. Strain into cups and serve hot.

🌿 Health Benefits

• Cardamom: Aids digestion and freshens breath.
• Ginger: Anti-inflammatory, supports immunity, and helps with nausea.
• Black tea: Contains antioxidants and moderate caffeine.
• Milk: Adds calcium and balances the strong tea flavors.

🍽️ When to Enjoy Shay Adeni

Shay Adeni is typically served:

• At breakfast with bread or pastries
• During afternoon breaks or tea time
• To guests as a sign of hospitality
• In cold weather as a warming drink

💡 Tips for Authentic Flavor

• Use whole spices for deeper flavor – crush them slightly before boiling.
• For extra creaminess, use evaporated milk or a mix of milk and cream.
• Adjust sugar based on preference – it’s traditionally quite sweet.
• Let the tea simmer for a few minutes to fully absorb the spice aromas.

📌 Final Thoughts

Shay Adeni is more than a cup of tea – it’s a warm tradition passed down through generations. Whether you're savoring it on a quiet morning or sharing it with loved ones, this flavorful Yemeni milk tea is a taste of comfort, culture, and timeless hospitality.

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