Description
Kashmiri Pink Chai, also known as Noon Tea, is a traditional and creamy tea with a naturally pink hue, flavored with aromatic spices.
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)
Instructions
- Bring the water to a boil in a saucepan. Add the green tea and boil for about 5 minutes.
- Stir in 1/2 teaspoon baking soda. The water will turn a deep red color. Continue boiling for another 2 minutes.
- Add star anise, crushed cardamom pods, and cinnamon stick. Boil for 1 more minute.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 20-30 minutes until the liquid reduces to about half, intensifying flavor and color.
- Stir in 1/4 teaspoon salt and mix well.
- Add whole milk and increase heat, bringing the chai to a boil. Stir constantly to prevent milk from burning. The tea will begin to turn pink.
- Once the chai is a beautiful pink color, remove from heat. Strain into cups to remove spices and tea leaves.
- Sweeten with sugar or honey to taste. Garnish with crushed nuts if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy the unique flavor and comforting warmth of Kashmiri Pink Chai!
Notes
- The natural pink color is achieved through the reaction of baking soda with the tea leaves.
- Use full-fat milk for creamier results, though low-fat milk can also be used.
- Serve immediately for the best flavor and warmth.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Beverages
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Kashmiri
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Sugar: Varies depending on added sugar or honey
- Sodium: Varies depending on added salt
- Fat: Varies depending on milk used
- Saturated Fat: Varies depending on milk used
- Unsaturated Fat: Varies depending on milk used
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: Varies depending on added sugar or honey
- Fiber: Negligible
- Protein: Varies depending on milk used
- Cholesterol: Varies depending on milk used
