Description
Kashmiri Pink Chai, also known as Noon Tea, is a unique traditional tea known for its beautiful pink hue and rich, aromatic flavor. Made with Kashmiri green tea, aromatic spices like star anise, cardamom, and cinnamon, and a hint of baking soda to develop its signature color, this comforting beverage is perfect for warming up on a cool day or enjoying as an afternoon treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Tea and Spices
- 2 cups Water
- 1 tbsp Kashmiri/Himalayan green tea (or other green tea)
- 1/2 tsp Baking soda
- 1 Star anise
- 4 Cardamom pods (crushed)
- 1 Cinnamon stick
- 1/4 tsp Himalayan salt (or other salt)
Dairy and Sweetener
- 1 cup Whole milk
- Sugar (or honey) to taste
Instructions
- Steep the Tea Leaves: In a saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Add the Kashmiri green tea leaves and simmer for about 5 minutes to extract the tea’s distinctive flavors.
- Add Baking Soda: Stir in 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda; this will cause the tea water to turn a deep red color. Continue boiling for another 2 minutes to deepen the color.
- Add Spices: Add the star anise, crushed cardamom pods, and cinnamon stick to the boiling tea. Let the mixture boil gently for an additional minute to infuse the flavors.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the tea simmer for 20 to 30 minutes, allowing it to reduce to about half its original volume, intensifying both its flavor and color.
- Add Salt: Stir in 1/4 teaspoon of Himalayan salt and mix thoroughly to balance the flavors.
- Pour in Milk: Add whole milk to the tea and increase the heat to bring the mixture to a low boil. Stir constantly to prevent the milk from sticking or burning. The chai should now develop its characteristic pink color.
- Strain and Serve: Once the tea reaches a lovely pink hue, remove from the heat. Add sugar or honey to your teacups and strain the tea into the cups. Stir well to dissolve the sweetener. Serve hot or pour over ice for a refreshing chilled version, and enjoy the uniquely comforting flavors of Kashmiri Pink Chai!
Notes
- Using baking soda is essential for developing the signature pink color of the chai.
- Simmering the tea slowly allows flavors and colors to develop fully, so don’t rush this step.
- Whole milk provides a richer flavor and creamier texture, but you can substitute with any milk of choice.
- Adjust sweetness to your preference with sugar or honey.
- For a chilled version, let the tea cool and pour over ice cubes before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Kashmiri
Keywords: Kashmiri Pink Chai, Noon Tea, Traditional Kashmiri Tea, Pink Tea, Kashmiri Green Tea, Spiced Tea, Indian Tea, Aromatic Tea
