Description
Kashmiri Pink Chai, also known as Noon Tea, is a traditional warm beverage from Kashmir with a unique pink hue and a blend of aromatic spices and green tea. This rich, comforting chai combines green tea leaves, baking soda, star anise, cardamom, cinnamon, and whole milk, reduced to develop a vibrant color and deep flavor. Sweetened to taste and optionally garnished with crushed nuts, this tea is perfect for cozy mornings or relaxing evenings.
Ingredients
Scale
Tea Base
- 4 cups Water
- 2 tbsp Kashmiri/Himalayan green tea (or other green tea)
- 1/2 tsp Baking soda
Spices
- 1–2 Star anise
- 2 Cardamom pods (crushed)
- 1 Cinnamon stick
- 1/4 tsp Salt
Dairy and Sweetener
- 2 cups Whole milk
- Sugar or honey to taste
Garnish (Optional)
- Crushed nuts (e.g., almonds or pistachios)
Instructions
- Boil Water and Brew Tea: Bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a saucepan, then add 2 tablespoons of Kashmiri or Himalayan green tea leaves. Boil the mixture for about 5 minutes to extract the tea essence.
- Add Baking Soda: Stir in 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda. The liquid will change to a deep red color. Continue boiling the tea for another 2 minutes to enhance the color.
- Incorporate Spices: Add 1-2 star anise, 2 crushed cardamom pods, and 1 cinnamon stick to the boiling tea. Boil together for an additional minute to release the spices’ aroma.
- Simmer and Reduce: Reduce the heat to low and simmer the tea for 20 to 30 minutes until the liquid reduces to about half its original volume. This intensifies the flavor and deepens the color.
- Season with Salt: Stir in 1/4 teaspoon of salt thoroughly to balance the flavors.
- Add Milk and Boil: Pour in 2 cups of whole milk and increase the heat. Bring the chai back to a boil, stirring constantly to prevent the milk from scorching. As it boils, the tea will begin to turn a distinctive pink shade.
- Strain the Tea: Once the pink color develops fully, remove the pan from heat. Strain the chai into cups to remove the tea leaves and spices for a smooth drink.
- Sweeten and Garnish: Sweeten the chai with sugar or honey to your preference. Optionally, garnish with crushed nuts like almonds or pistachios for added texture and flavor.
- Serve Hot: Enjoy the Kashmiri Pink Chai warm to experience its unique floral aroma and soothing warmth.
Notes
- Use baking soda sparingly; it is essential for developing the pink color but too much can alter the taste.
- Simmering too long may reduce the liquid excessively; watch the tea as it simmers and adjust time if necessary.
- Whole milk provides the best creamy texture, but you can use a milk alternative if desired.
- Adjust sweetness based on personal preference; traditionally, this chai is lightly sweetened.
- Crushed nuts add a nice garnish but are optional for those with nut allergies.
- To vary the flavor, you can add a small pinch of saffron along with the spices if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Kashmiri
Keywords: Kashmiri Pink Chai, Noon Tea, Kashmiri tea recipe, pink tea, green tea, spiced tea, traditional Kashmiri beverage
