There is something truly magical about the warm, comforting aroma of Kashmiri tea wafting through a cozy home on a crisp winter day. This delightful beverage, also known as “noon chai” or “pink tea,” originates from the stunning region of Kashmir in northern India.

The history of this unique tea dates back centuries, with its origins rooted in the intricate culture and traditions of the Kashmiri people.

Made using a special blend of green tea leaves, spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves, along with a generous amount of milk, Kashmiri tea boasts a rich and complex flavor profile that is both soothing and invigorating.

Crafting the perfect cup of Kashmiri tea requires patience, precision, and a deep appreciation for the time-honored techniques passed down through generations.

The process can be a bit daunting for beginners, as achieving the perfect balance of spices, sweetness, and creaminess takes practice and skill. However, the effort is well worth it once you take that first sip of this luxurious, velvety beverage.

Whether enjoyed on a snowy day by the fireside or served as a special treat for guests, Kashmiri tea is a true indulgence that warms the soul and nourishes the spirit. So brew yourself a pot, snuggle up with a good book, and savor every sip of this beloved elixir from a land steeped in tradition and beauty.

Ingredients

Kashmiri Tea Leaves: These special tea leaves are what give Kashmiri tea its unique flavor and bright pink color. They are a type of green tea that is grown in the Kashmir region of India and are known for their rich and aromatic taste.

Sugar: Sugar is added to Kashmiri tea to sweeten it and balance out the strong flavors of the tea leaves and spices. It is crucial in creating the perfect cup of this warming and comforting beverage.

Whole Milk: Whole milk is used in Kashmiri tea to give it a creamy and rich texture. The fat content in whole milk helps to mellow out the bold flavors of the tea leaves and spices, resulting in a smooth and indulgent drink.

Saffron Strands: Saffron strands are a key ingredient in Kashmiri tea, adding both flavor and a vibrant orange-red color to the beverage. Saffron is a highly prized spice and is often used in traditional Kashmiri cuisine for its unique and aromatic qualities.

Green Cardamom Pods: Green cardamom pods are used in Kashmiri tea to impart a warm and slightly citrusy flavor. The pods are lightly crushed to release their aromatic seeds, which infuse the tea with a subtle and exotic taste.

Cloves: Cloves are added to Kashmiri tea for their strong and fragrant flavor. They provide a slightly spicy and earthy note to the tea, complementing the other spices and creating a well-rounded and complex taste.

Cinnamon Stick: A cinnamon stick is used in Kashmiri tea to add a sweet and woody flavor to the beverage. It also imparts a warm and comforting aroma that enhances the overall drinking experience.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

When serving Kashmiri Tea, consider these delicious options to enhance the experience:

• Serve the tea hot in traditional Kashmiri cups or small, elegant ceramic cups for an authentic touch.
• Garnish each cup with a sprinkle of crushed pistachios or almonds for added texture and flavor.
• Pair the Kashmiri Tea with sweet treats like baklava or shirini (Iranian pastries) for a delightful tea time spread.
• For a refreshing twist, serve the tea over ice with a splash of rose water or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Here are some variations to consider when making Kashmiri Tea:

• Add a pinch of nutmeg or ground ginger for a warm, spicy flavor profile.
• Experiment with different types of milk such as almond milk or coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
• Try sweetening the tea with honey or maple syrup instead of sugar for a unique taste.
• For a richer texture, substitute some of the whole milk with evaporated milk or condensed milk.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Kashmiri Tea?

Kashmiri tea, also known as noon chai or pink tea, is a traditional tea beverage native to the Kashmir Valley in India. It is made with green tea leaves, milk, cardamom, cinnamon, and sometimes crushed almonds or saffron.

What does Kashmiri Tea taste like?

Kashmiri tea has a unique flavor profile that is sweet, milky, and slightly salty. The addition of spices like cardamom and cinnamon give it a warm and aromatic taste.

How is Kashmiri Tea traditionally served?

Kashmiri tea is typically served in small, shallow cups called samovars. It is often enjoyed with savory snacks like bakery items or kebabs.

Can I make Kashmiri Tea at home?

Yes, you can make Kashmiri tea at home by steeping green tea leaves in hot water and then adding milk, cardamom, cinnamon, and sugar to taste. You can also experiment with adding other spices or ingredients like almonds or saffron.

Is Kashmiri Tea caffeinated?

Yes, Kashmiri tea is made with green tea leaves, which contain caffeine. However, the caffeine content can vary depending on the strength of the tea and how it is brewed.

Feel free to reach out if you have any other questions about Kashmiri Tea!

Check Out These Other Recipes

Here are some more recipes for you to enjoy! If you my recipes don’t forget to rate and leave a comment.

• Green Tea
• Desi Chai
• Bubble Tea
• Ajwain Tea
• Masala Chai

If you have any recipe suggestions, please do not hesitate to ask me. A great way to stay in contact with me is through Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. Don’t forget to tag me @CookwithNabeela in your recipe photos!

Kashmiri Tea

by Nabeela Kauser

Experience the warm, aromatic blend of spice and cream in this traditional Kashmiri beverage. Infused with fragrant flavors, this tea offers a unique and comforting taste that is perfect for cozy evenings or special gatherings.

5 from 1 vote

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Course Drinks

Cuisine Pakistani

Servings 2

Calories 130 kcal

Cook ModePrevent your screen from going dark

Ingredients

• ▢ 2 tsp Kashmiri Tea Leaves
• ▢ 500 ml Water
• ▢ 2 tbsp Sugar
• ▢ 250 ml Milk
• ▢ Saffron Strands
• ▢ 2 Green Cardamom Pods crushed
• ▢ 2 Cloves
• ▢ Cinnamon

Instructions

• In a saucepan, bring the water to a boil.
• Add the Kashmiri tea leaves to the boiling water and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
• Stir in the sugar and continue simmering for another 2 minutes.
• Pour in the milk and add the saffron, crushed cardamom pods, cloves, and cinnamon stick.
• Allow the tea to simmer gently for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Once the tea is fragrant and infused with spices, remove it from the heat.
• Strain the tea into cups or a teapot, discarding the tea leaves and whole spices.
• Serve hot and enjoy the aromatic flavours of Kashmiri tea.

Notes

Ensure to use Kashmiri tea leaves for an authentic flavour.

Adjust the sugar according to your taste preference.

You can garnish the tea with crushed nuts like almonds or pistachios for added texture and flavour.

Nutritional facts:

The provision of nutritional information is done so merely as a courtesy and should not be taken as a guarantee.

Nutrition

Calories: 130kcalCarbohydrates: 19gProtein: 4gFat: 4gSaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 63mgPotassium: 218mgFibre: 1gSugar: 18gVitamin A: 209IUVitamin C: 0.4mgVitamin D: 1µgCalcium: 175mgIron: 0.3mg

Keyword Beverages, Cooking, Drinks, Food, Hot Drinks, Pink Tea, Ramadan, Recipe, Tea

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