Sulaimani Chai
Kerala, India
Kerala's answer to chai—black tea with lemon, no milk. Light, tangy, and perfect after a heavy meal.
The Story
In Malabar, Kerala's Muslim-majority coastal region, Sulaimani is the preferred tea. Named after the legendary King Solomon (Sulaiman), it's a simple brew: black tea with lemon or lime and sugar, no milk. It's considered easier to digest than milk tea and is traditionally served after biryani and other rich Malabar dishes. The bright, tangy flavor cleanses the palate and settles the stomach.
Flavor Notes
Perfect For
- After heavy meals
- Digestion
- When you don't want milk
- Hot weather
- Malabar cuisine pairing
Pairs Well With
Make It at Home
2 cups · 8 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 cups water
- 2 teaspoons black tea
- Juice of 1 lemon or 2 limes
- 2-3 tablespoons sugar
- Fresh mint leaves (optional)
Steps
- 1Bring water to a boil
- 2Add tea leaves and boil for 2-3 minutes
- 3Strain into cups
- 4Add sugar while hot and stir to dissolve
- 5Add fresh lemon or lime juice
- 6Garnish with mint if desired
- 7Serve hot, especially after a big meal
Variations to Try
- ✦Add a pinch of cardamom while brewing
- ✦Use honey instead of sugar
- ✦Add fresh ginger for extra digestive benefits
Related Variants
How to Brew
Our recommended approach for the best cup
Water Temperature
212°F
(100°C)
Amount
1 teaspoon black tea per 6oz
Steep Time
3-4 minutes
Resteeps
Not traditional
Recommended Vessel
Glass or ceramic cup
Brewing Tips
Use fresh lemon or lime juice, added after brewing (acid + heat = bitterness). Don't skimp on sugar—it balances the tartness. Some add a few mint leaves. The tea should be clear and golden, not murky.