Kashmiri Chai, often known as “Noon Chai” or “Pink Tea,” is a beverage that embodies the rich culture and traditions of the Kashmir Valley in Pakistan. How to make Kashmiri Chai Its unique pink hue and aromatic flavors make it a distinctive and cherished drink. In this article, we will explore the history, ingredients, preparation, cultural significance & How to make Kashmiri Chai.
Ingredients
- 1cup water
- 2tbsp Kashmiri chai leaves, or sub any non-bitter green tea leaves
- 2star anise (badiyan)
- 6-8green cardamom pods
- 2 whole cloves (long), optional
- 1″ cinnamon stick, optional
- 1/8tsp heaped baking soda
- 1cup whole milk
- ½cup half and half (See Note 1)
- 1/4tsp kosher salt – may need less if using sea salt, or to taste
- 2-2.5tbsp sweetener of choice, I’ve tried cane sugar, brown sugar, and date syrup
How to Make Kashmiri Chai / Kashmiri Chai bananay ka Tariqa
- Prepare ice water: Combine room temperature water with 2-3 large ice cubes and set aside.
- Heat a medium saucepan over high heat. Add water, Kashmiri chai leaves, star anise, green cardamom pods, cloves and cinnamon (if using) and bring to a boil.
- Once it comes to a boil, add the baking soda. It’ll fizz a little. Allow this mixture to boil over high heat for 5-6 minutes. Occasionally, use a ladle to aerate (scoop and pour back) the tea. You’ll notice the froth in the water go from pale green to a deep pink color. If not, add another 1/8 tsp of baking soda. (See Note 2) The water will be greatly reduced, almost evaporated.
- Add the prepared ice water (discard any ice cubes). If you’d like, you can aerate several times to deepen the color. Add the milk, half & half, salt, and sweetener. Allow it to come to a light boil, then immediately turn off the heat. Do not allow it to boil for too long as it’ll start to lose some of its pink color. Taste and adjust salt and sweetener.
- Strain the tea into cups and add crushed almonds and pistachios, as desired.
Note 1: Or any combination of half & half + milk. If you prefer it lighter, replace the half & half with milk. Likewise, if you prefer it richer, increase the half & half and decrease the milk. You can also sub half & half with 1 part heavy whipping cream + 1 part milk.
Note 2: If, after adding more baking soda, it’s still not turning pink, then try using different green tea leaves.
