Kashmiri Pink Tea: Cozy Sips of This Beautiful Brew

Kashmiri Pink Tea: Cozy Sips of This Beautiful Brew

Kashmiri Pink Tea, or Noon Chai, is a visually stunning beverage blending creamy and subtly salty flavors, perfect for cozy evenings.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 20

Aeration Time 1

Total Time 36

Servings: 4 cups

Course: Beverage

Cuisine: Kashmiri

Calories: 150

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

For the Tea Base

2 tablespoons loose green tea leaves Use Chinese green tea as a substitute if needed.
¼ teaspoon baking soda Crucial for developing the pink hue.
2 cups cold water Essential for brewing.
2 cups ice-cold water Helps aerate the tea.

For the Creaminess

2 cups whole milk Dairy-free alternatives can be used, but color may change.

For Flavor Enhancement

2-3 pieces crushed cardamom pods Optional for a floral note.
to taste salt or sugar Choose either to customize the flavor.

For Garnish

as needed crushed pistachios Optional garnish.
as needed crushed almonds Optional garnish.
as needed dried rose petals Optional garnish.

Equipment

Saucepan
whisk

Method

Step-by-Step Instructions

In a deep saucepan, combine 2 tablespoons of loose green tea leaves, ¼ teaspoon of baking soda, and 2 cups of cold water. Bring this mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat.
Reduce the heat to low and let the tea simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the liquid reduces by half.
Remove the saucepan from heat and carefully add 2 cups of ice-cold water, whisking vigorously for about 1 minute.
If desired, add 2-3 crushed cardamom pods and return to a low simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
Strain the concentrate through a fine sieve into a clean pot.
Gradually pour in 2 cups of warm milk while stirring continuously to transform the tea to a pastel pink.
Taste and add salt or sugar as preferred, then simmer gently for a couple of minutes.
Pour the Kashmiri Pink Tea into cups and optionally garnish with crushed pistachios, almonds, or dried rose petals.

Notes

Use loose green tea leaves for the best flavor. Whisk vigorously after adding ice-cold water to achieve the desired pink hue. Adjust seasoning to taste and garnish creatively for an impressive presentation.