The Secrets of Authentic Gujarati Kadak Chai: Why Surendranagar Loves Khush Tea
From the bustling lanes of Mehta Market to homes across Saurashtra, here is how the perfect morning cup is crafted.
Khush Tea Master Blender
Surendranagar Heritage Tea Taster • August 28, 2026
“In Gujarat, chai isn’t just a morning beverage—it is a cherished ritual, a gesture of warm hospitality, and the soul of daily conversation. From the early morning stalls near Surendranagar Tower Clock to family living rooms across Saurashtra, one distinct style reigns supreme: the unapologetically bold, creamy, and aromatic Gujarati Kadak Chai.”
1. Why CTC Granule Quality Makes All The Difference
Unlike orthodox loose leaf teas meant for delicate steeping, authentic Kadak Chai requires dense, dark, slow-roasted CTC (Crush, Tear, Curl) tea granules. When boiled with milk, high-quality CTC leaves release a rich mahogany-red liquor without turning bitter or astringent.
At Khush Tea, our signature 11 Number and Royal blends are curated specifically to hold their full body and aroma even when simmered with thick buffalo milk and traditional spices.
True kadak chai gets its golden color not from excessive sugar, but from the natural malty richness of properly curated high-grown CTC tea.
2. The Golden Ratio: Water, Milk & Boil Time
The biggest mistake people make is boiling tea leaves in cold milk directly. The secret to rich depth is blooming the tea in simmering water first so the tea granules expand and release their deepest essential oils before adding milk.
Let the mixture rise to a rolling boil (called "Ubaal") 2 to 3 times on medium heat. This aerates the milk proteins and gives the chai its velvety, frothy top layer.
- 1 Cup Fresh Filtered Water
- 1 Cup Full Cream or Standard Milk
- 2 Teaspoons Khush Ni 11 Number Tea
- 2 Teaspoons Raw Sugar or Jaggery (to taste)
- Optional: Crushed green cardamom and fresh ginger
Traditional Surendranagar Kadak Chai Recipe (Serves 2)
Ingredients:
- 1 Cup Water
- 1 Cup Rich Full-Fat Milk
- 2 Heaped tsp Khush Ni 11 Number Tea (or Khush Premium Tea)
- 1/2 Inch Fresh Ginger (crushed coarsely)
- 2 Green Cardamom pods (lightly bruised)
- 2 tsp Sugar (adjust to taste)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- 1Bring 1 cup of water to a gentle boil in a stainless steel pan.
- 2Add crushed ginger, cardamom, and 2 tsp of Khush Tea granules. Let it simmer on medium flame for 2 minutes until deep amber.
- 3Pour in 1 cup of room-temperature milk and add sugar.
- 4Bring to a rolling boil, reduce heat when it rises, and repeat the boil 2-3 times for rich thickness.
- 5Strain into cutting glasses or traditional clay kulhads and serve piping hot with crispy fafda or biscuits!
A great cup of chai creates an instant moment of peace in a busy day. Try this authentic recipe with Khush Ni 11 Number Tea and experience the true warmth of Surendranagar in every sip.
Khush No. 11 Tea
Khush No. 11 Tea is the legendary blend that made Khush Tea a household name across Saurashtra. Known for its strong punch, vibrant color, and unmatched kadak character that pairs flawlessly with Gujarati snacks.
From RS. 80.00 (250g)