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Creamy Kashmiri Chai: A Cozy Cup of Comfort

Kashmiri Chai is a creamy, spiced tea with a vibrant pink hue, perfect for cozy gatherings.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 cups
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: Pakistani
Calories: 180
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Kehwa
  • 4 cups Cold Water essential for brewing the tea
  • 3 tablespoons Kashmiri Tea Leaves provides unique flavor and color
  • ¼ teaspoon Baking Soda aids in achieving the vibrant pink hue
  • ⅓ teaspoon Salt enhances flavor balance
  • 1 pod Star Anise adds warm spice notes
  • 1 inch Cinnamon Stick introduces warm aromatic flavor
  • 3 Cloves imparts subtle spiciness
  • 5 Green Cardamom Pods provides floral notes and depth
For the Chai
  • 2 cups Ice-Cold Water helps develop iconic pink color
  • 1 cup Milk adds creaminess and body
  • 1-2 tablespoons Sugar sweetens the beverage
For Garnishing
  • a handful Crushed Almonds & Pistachios adds delightful crunch

Equipment

  • large saucepan
  • fine mesh sieve

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Authentic Kashmiri Chai
  1. In a large saucepan, add 4 cups of cold water, 3 tablespoons of Kashmiri tea leaves, 1 star anise pod, a 1-inch cinnamon stick, 3 cloves, and 5 green cardamom pods. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat while stirring occasionally.
  2. Once boiling, carefully add ¼ teaspoon of baking soda and ⅓ teaspoon of salt. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer uncovered for about 15-20 minutes.
  3. After simmering, pour in 2 cups of ice-cold water from a height. Aerate for 10 minutes.
  4. Once aerated, strain the kehwa into a storage container using a fine mesh sieve, discarding the solids.
  5. To make the chai, bring 1 cup of milk to a gentle boil. Stir in 1-2 tablespoons of sugar, then add the prepared kehwa.
  6. Cover the saucepan and let the chai steep for 2-3 minutes off the heat.
  7. Top each cup with crushed almonds and pistachios. Serve hot with snacks.

Notes

Check the freshness of baking soda for the best pink hue. Adjust spices to personal preference, and consider milk alternatives for a vegan option.