Description
Kashmiri Pink Chai, also known as Noon Tea, is a traditional aromatic pink tea from Kashmir made with green tea leaves, warming spices, baking soda, and whole milk. This cozy beverage is simmered slowly to develop a rich flavor and a beautiful rosy hue, typically enjoyed with a touch of sweetness and garnished with crushed nuts for a delightful experience.
Ingredients
Scale
Tea Base
- 4 cups water
- 2 tablespoons Kashmiri or Himalayan green tea leaves
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
Spices
- 1–2 star anise
- 2 cardamom pods, crushed
- 1 cinnamon stick
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Dairy and Garnish
- 2 cups whole milk
- Sugar or honey, to taste
- Crushed pistachios or almonds, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Boil the Tea Leaves: Bring 4 cups of water to a rolling boil in a saucepan, then add the Kashmiri or Himalayan green tea leaves and let them boil for 5 minutes to release their flavor.
- Add Baking Soda: Stir in ½ teaspoon of baking soda; the water will turn a reddish color. Continue boiling for an additional 2 minutes to develop the unique pink hue.
- Add Spices: Add 1–2 star anise, crushed 2 cardamom pods, and 1 cinnamon stick to the boiling tea. Let it boil for 1 more minute to infuse the tea with aromatic spices.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and simmer the mixture gently for 20 to 30 minutes. This slow simmer allows the flavors to deepen and the water to reduce, concentrating the tea’s flavor.
- Add Salt and Milk: Stir in ¼ teaspoon of salt, then add 2 cups of whole milk. Bring the tea to a gentle boil again while stirring continuously. The milk and tea will combine to form a beautiful pink color.
- Strain and Serve: Strain the tea through a fine sieve into cups. Sweeten with sugar or honey according to taste, and garnish with crushed pistachios or almonds if desired for an added crunch and flavor.
Notes
- Use whole milk for the best creamy texture and authentic pink color.
- Adjust the sweetness and spices based on your preference.
- Simmering longer deepens the flavor but keep an eye to avoid burning.
- Baking soda is essential for the pink color; do not skip.
- Garnishing with nuts adds a traditional finishing touch.
