Kashmiri Pink Tea Recipe with Green Tea Recipe
Why Make This Recipe
Kashmiri Pink Tea, also known as Noon Chai, is not just a drink; it’s a delightful experience. The unique pink color and rich flavor make it special. This tea warms you up on chilly days and brings comfort after a long day. It’s perfect for gatherings or moments of relaxation alone. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy a taste of Kashmiri culture.
How to Make Kashmiri Pink Tea
Ingredients :
- 4 cups Water
- 2 tbsp Kashmiri/Himalayan green tea (or other green tea)
- 1/2 tsp Baking soda
- 1-2 Star anise
- 2 Cardamom pods, crushed
- 1 Cinnamon stick
- 1/4 tsp Salt
- 2 cups Whole milk
- Sugar or honey to taste
- Crushed nuts (e.g., almonds)
Directions :
- Bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a saucepan.
- Add the Kashmiri or Himalayan green tea, baking soda, star anise, crushed cardamom pods, cinnamon stick, and salt. Let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The baking soda will react with the tea, giving it its characteristic pink hue.
- Once the tea has deepened in color and aroma, strain it through a fine sieve into a clean pot to remove the tea leaves and whole spices.
- Pour in the 2 cups of whole milk and place the pot back on medium heat. Stir and bring the tea to a gentle simmer but avoid boiling over. Add sugar or honey gradually according to your taste preference, stirring to dissolve.
- Let the tea simmer lightly for 5-7 minutes more, allowing the milk to fully infuse with the spices and tea flavors, enhancing the creamy texture and pink color.
- Pour the Kashmiri Pink Chai into cups or glasses. Sprinkle crushed nuts like almonds on top for an optional garnish that adds a nice crunch and nutty aroma. Serve hot for the best experience.
How to Serve Kashmiri Pink Tea
Kashmiri Pink Tea is best served hot. You can enjoy it as a standalone drink or pair it with some snacks like biscuits or traditional sweets. The crushed nuts on top not only add flavor but also make the drink look appealing.
How to Store Kashmiri Pink Tea
If you have leftovers, let the tea cool down before storing it. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you want to enjoy it again, warm it on the stove but avoid boiling to keep the texture smooth.
Tips to Make Kashmiri Pink Tea
- Use fresh green tea for the best flavor.
- Ensure you stir the tea regularly while it simmers to help develop the pink color.
- Adjust the amount of sugar or honey based on your preference for sweetness.
- Experiment with spices. You can add more cardamom or a pinch of nutmeg for a different taste.
Variation
You can easily make this tea vegan by replacing whole milk with almond milk or coconut milk. This alters the flavor slightly but keeps it creamy and delicious.
FAQs
-
Why does Kashmiri Pink Tea turn pink?
- The addition of baking soda reacts with the green tea and water, giving the tea its unique pink color.
-
Can I use regular black tea instead?
- Yes, you can, but it may not give you the same flavor or color. Kashmiri tea is traditionally made with green tea.
-
Is Kashmiri Pink Tea healthy?
- Yes, it contains antioxidants from the tea and spices, but be mindful of the sugar or honey added.
Kashmiri Pink Tea
Ingredients
Method
- Bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a saucepan.
- Add the Kashmiri or Himalayan green tea, baking soda, star anise, crushed cardamom pods, cinnamon stick, and salt.
- Let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Strain the tea through a fine sieve into a clean pot to remove the tea leaves and whole spices.
- Pour in the 2 cups of whole milk and place the pot back on medium heat.
- Stir and bring the tea to a gentle simmer but avoid boiling over.
- Add sugar or honey gradually according to your taste preference, stirring to dissolve.
- Let the tea simmer lightly for 5-7 minutes more.
- Pour the Kashmiri Pink Chai into cups or glasses and sprinkle crushed nuts on top.