Kashmiri Pink Tea
why make this recipe
Kashmiri Pink Tea is a beautiful and flavorful drink from the Kashmir region of India. Its unique pink color and rich, creamy taste make it a special treat. This tea is not just about taste; it also has a lovely aroma and a subtle nutty flavor, making it perfect for warming up on a chilly day or serving at gatherings. Making this tea is a fun way to explore new flavors and traditions in your kitchen.
how to make Kashmiri Pink Tea
Ingredients:
- 4 cups water
- 2 tablespoons green tea leaves (preferably Kashmiri tea leaves)
- 4 green cardamom pods, crushed
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons crushed almonds
- 2 tablespoons crushed pistachios
- 1 tablespoon crushed walnuts (optional)
- 1 teaspoon rose water (optional)
Directions:
- In a large saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil.
- Add the green tea leaves, crushed cardamom, and baking soda. Boil the mixture vigorously for about 10-15 minutes, allowing it to turn a deep red color and develop the characteristic pink hue.
- Add salt and continue to boil for another 2 minutes.
- Reduce the heat and add the whole milk. Stir well and simmer for 10 minutes, letting the tea develop a creamy consistency and pink color.
- Strain the tea into cups using a fine mesh strainer.
- Garnish with crushed almonds, pistachios, walnuts, and a splash of rose water if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy the rich, nutty aroma and flavor.
how to serve Kashmiri Pink Tea
Kashmiri Pink Tea is typically served hot in small cups. You can enjoy it plain or topped with crushed nuts for added texture and flavor. The tea pairs wonderfully with pastries, biscuits, or traditional snacks, making it a delightful treat for afternoon gatherings or special occasions.
how to store Kashmiri Pink Tea
While it’s best to enjoy Kashmiri Pink Tea fresh, you can store leftover tea in a sealed container in the refrigerator. Make sure to consume it within 1-2 days for the best flavor. To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. You may need to stir in a little milk to restore its creaminess.
tips to make Kashmiri Pink Tea
- Use high-quality Kashmiri green tea leaves to achieve the best flavor and color.
- Be patient while boiling the tea to allow it to reach the right shade of pink.
- Adjust the amount of baking soda carefully; too much can affect the taste.
- Experiment with different nuts for garnishing to find your favorite combination.
variation
You can add a hint of spice by including a pinch of cinnamon or a few strands of saffron for an extra special touch. You may also replace whole milk with almond milk for a dairy-free version.
FAQs
1. Why does Kashmiri Pink Tea turn pink?
The pink color comes from the reaction between the baking soda and the tea leaves when boiled.
2. Can I make Kashmiri Pink Tea without nuts?
Yes, you can skip the nuts if you prefer a simpler version. The tea will still be delicious on its own.
3. Is Kashmiri Pink Tea sweetened?
Typically, it is not sweetened, but you can add sugar or sweeteners according to your taste.
Kashmiri Pink Tea
Ingredients
Method
- In a large saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil.
- Add the green tea leaves, crushed cardamom, and baking soda. Boil vigorously for 10-15 minutes until it turns deep red and develops a pink hue.
- Add salt and continue boiling for another 2 minutes.
- Reduce heat and add whole milk. Stir well and simmer for 10 minutes to achieve a creamy consistency and pink color.
- Strain the tea into cups using a fine mesh strainer.
- Garnish with crushed almonds, pistachios, walnuts, and a splash of rose water if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy the rich, nutty aroma and flavor.