Kashmiri Pink Chai (Noon Tea)
Master the art of preparing striking Kashmiri Pink Chai. This traditional tea combines aromatic spices, special green tea leaves, and a magical color change for a truly captivating beverage experience. Perfect for those who love a touch of culture in their cup!
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 teh green tea, and boil for about 5 minutes.
- Stir in 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda. The water will turn a deep red color. Continue boiling for another 2 minutes.
- Add the star anise, crushed cardamom pods, and cinnamon stick and boil for another minute.
- Reduce the heat and simmer the tea for 20-30 minutes until it reduces to about half its original volume, intensifying the flavor and color.
- Stir in a quarter teaspoon of salt and mix well.
- Add 2 cups of whole milk and increase the heat, bringing the tea to a boil. Stir constantly to avoid burning the milk. As the milk boils, the tea will begin to turn pink.
- Once the chai is a beautiful pink color, remove it from heat. Strain it into cups to remove the spices and tea leaves.
- Sweeten with sugar or honey according to taste. You can also garnish the tea with crushed nuts like pistachios or almonds.
- Serve hot and enjoy the unique flavor and comforting warmth of Kashmiri Pink Chai!