Quirky Foodster
  1. Back

Drinks

Shaah (Spiced Milk Tea)

The Quirky Foodster Team

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ (0)

Ingredients

  • 300 ml Water
  • 300 ml Whole milk
  • 10 g Black tea leaves (loose) or 2 tea bags
  • 30 g Sugar
  • 3 Whole green cardamom pods, lightly crushed
  • 2 Whole cloves
  • 1 small Cinnamon stick

Method

  1. Combine the water, cardamom pods, cloves and cinnamon stick in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
  2. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to let the spices infuse the water.
  3. Add the tea leaves and simmer for a further 2 minutes.
  4. Pour in the milk and sugar, and bring back to a gentle boil, watching closely so it doesn't boil over.
  5. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until well infused and a warm golden-brown colour.
  6. Strain into cups and serve hot.

Introduction: Shaah is Djibouti’s everyday spiced tea, brewed strong with black tea leaves, milk and a fragrant mix of cardamom, cloves and cinnamon.

Cultural Background: Shaah is Djibouti’s everyday spiced tea, brewed strong with black tea leaves, milk and a fragrant mix of cardamom, cloves and cinnamon. It’s central to hospitality — offered to guests morning, noon and night, and a fixture of breakfast tables alongside laxoox or sabayaad.

Tips: Watch the pot closely once the milk goes in — spiced milk tea can boil over quickly and unexpectedly.

Variations: Fresh grated ginger can be added with the other spices for extra warmth. Use a plant-based milk such as oat or evaporated coconut milk for a vegan version.

Storage: Best served fresh; not recommended for storing.

Reheating: Reheat gently in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.

Nutrition: Per serving: approx. 90 kcal, 3g protein, 12g carbohydrate, 3g fat, 0g fibre.

FAQs

Q: Can I use tea bags instead of loose leaves?
A: Yes, 2 standard black tea bags work well in place of loose leaf tea.

© Arscale 2026