Why Make This Recipe
Kashmiri Pink Tea, also known as Noon Tea, is a traditional tea that offers a unique taste and vibrant color. This delightful beverage is popular for its rich flavor and creamy texture. It’s perfect for cozy gatherings or a peaceful afternoon treat. Plus, it’s a great way to experience a bit of Kashmiri culture right in your own home.
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) for garnish (optional)
Directions
- Bring the water to a boil in a saucepan.
- Add the green tea and boil for about 5 minutes.
- Stir in 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda. The water will turn a deep red color. Continue boiling for another 2 minutes.
- Add the star anise, crushed cardamom pods, and cinnamon stick, and boil for another minute.
- Reduce the heat and let the tea simmer for 20-30 minutes until it reduces to about half its original volume, intensifying the flavor and color.
- Stir in a quarter teaspoon of salt and mix well.
- Add 2 cups of whole milk and increase the heat, bringing the tea to a boil. Stir constantly to avoid burning the milk. As the milk boils, watch for the tea to turn pink.
- Once the chai is a beautiful pink color, remove it from the heat.
- Strain the tea into cups to remove the spices and tea leaves.
- Sweeten with sugar or honey according to taste. You can also garnish the tea with crushed nuts like pistachios or almonds.
- Serve hot and enjoy the unique flavor and comforting warmth of Kashmiri Pink Tea!
How to Serve Kashmiri Pink Tea
Kashmiri Pink Tea is best served hot. Use elegant cups or traditional Kashmiri chai glasses for an authentic experience. You can add a sprinkle of crushed nuts on top for extra flavor and a beautiful presentation.
How to Store Kashmiri Pink Tea
If you have leftover Kashmiri Pink Tea, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to 2 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove, adding a little extra milk to restore its creamy texture.
Tips to Make Kashmiri Pink Tea
- Use good quality green tea for the best flavor.
- The baking soda is key to achieving the beautiful pink color, so don’t skip it.
- Stir constantly when adding milk to prevent it from burning.
- Taste the tea before serving to adjust sweetness to your liking.
Variation
You can try adding a pinch of saffron for an even richer flavor and color. Some people also like to include a splash of rose water for a floral note.
FAQs
1. Can I use regular black tea instead of green tea?
Yes, you can use black tea, but it might change the flavor and color of the final beverage.
2. Is Kashmiri Pink Tea healthy?
Kashmiri Pink Tea contains antioxidants from green tea and can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. However, be mindful of the sugar or honey you add.
3. Can I make this tea in advance?
Yes, you can prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it gently before serving.
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Kashmiri Pink Tea
Ingredients
Tea Base
- 4 cups Water
- 2 tbsp Kashmiri/Himalayan green tea Can substitute with other green tea
- 1/2 tsp Baking soda Essential for achieving the pink color
- 1-2 Star anise
- 2 Cardamom pods (crushed)
- 1 stick Cinnamon stick
- 1/4 tsp Salt
Milk & Sweetener
- 2 cups Whole milk
- to taste Sugar or honey For sweetening
- optional Crushed nuts (e.g., almonds) For garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Bring the water to a boil in a saucepan.
- Add the green tea and boil for about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the baking soda. The water will turn a deep red color. Continue boiling for another 2 minutes.
- Add the star anise, crushed cardamom pods, and cinnamon stick, and boil for another minute.
- Reduce the heat and let the tea simmer for 20-30 minutes until it reduces to about half its original volume, intensifying the flavor and color.
- Stir in a quarter teaspoon of salt and mix well.
Cooking
- Add 2 cups of whole milk and increase the heat, bringing the tea to a boil. Stir constantly to avoid burning the milk.
- Watch for the tea to turn pink as the milk boils.
- Once the chai is a beautiful pink color, remove it from the heat.
- Strain the tea into cups to remove the spices and tea leaves.
- Sweeten with sugar or honey according to taste. You can also garnish with crushed nuts.
Serving
- Kashmiri Pink Tea is best served hot in elegant cups or traditional Kashmiri chai glasses.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of crushed nuts for extra flavor.