Description
Experience the enchanting flavors of Kashmiri Pink Chai, a vibrant and creamy beverage that will transport your senses to the valleys of Kashmir. This unique drink combines rich green tea, aromatic spices, and a touch of sweetness for a truly comforting experience.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 cups cold water
- Kashmiri Green Tea Leaves (Noon Chai Patti)
- 1/8 teaspoon baking soda (Bicarbonate of Soda)
- 1 cup very cold water
- 2 cups whole milk
- Green cardamom pods
- Star anise (Optional)
- A tiny pinch of salt
- Sugar (to taste)
- Nuts (Almonds, Pistachios) for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Tea Base (Kahwa): In a heavy-bottomed pot, add 3 cups of cold water along with the Kashmiri green tea leaves and a tiny pinch (about 1/8 teaspoon) of baking soda. Bring this mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat.
- Aeration for Color: Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low. Aerate the tea by pouring it back and forth between two ladles for about 10-15 minutes or whisk vigorously. Continue until the water reduces to about 1 cup of a deep reddish-maroon concentrate.
- Add Cold Water and Re-boil: Add 1 cup of very cold water to the pot. Bring it back to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for another 5 minutes. Strain the kahwa using a fine-mesh sieve and set aside.
- Combine with Milk and Spices: In a separate saucepan, pour 2 cups of whole milk. Add the lightly crushed cardamom pods (and star anise if using) and a tiny pinch of salt. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Final Assembly: Slowly pour the prepared pink kahwa concentrate into the simmering milk, stirring continuously. Simmer for another 5-7 minutes, stirring gently to create a frothy texture.
- Sweeten and Serve: Taste and add sugar to your preference. Ladle the hot Kashmiri Pink Chai into serving cups and garnish with slivered almonds and crushed pistachios. Serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Brewing
- Cuisine: Kashmiri
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 50 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
Keywords: Ensure to aerate the tea properly for the best pink color. Use high-quality green tea for authentic flavor, and adjust sweetness to personal preference. Garnish with nuts for added texture.