Pink has always been my favorite color. As a child, I eagerly waited for wedding celebrations, not just for the festivities but for the delightful pink tea often served during such events. The enchanting color of Kashmiri tea felt like a visual treat, and even now, whenever I make it, I feel like I’m pampering myself after a long day.
This tea makes winters even cozier. It’s more than just a drink; it’s a soul-soothing experience. If I say that Kashmiri tea satisfies the soul, it wouldn’t be an exaggeration. In this blog, I’ll guide you step by step on how to make this iconic tea and even how to store its kahwa for convenience.
Table of Contents
What Does Kashmiri Tea Taste Like?
Kashmiri tea is a luxurious blend of flavors with the sweetness of cardamom and pistachios, a hint of cinnamon, and a creamy texture. It tastes like a treat—rich, indulgent, and comforting.
What Goes in Kashmiri Tea?
Here’s what makes this tea so special:
Kashmiri Tea Leaves – The base of the tea, giving it its unique flavor.
Baking Soda – A surprising yet essential ingredient that enhances the pink color.
Salt – Balances the flavors.
Cardamom & Cinnamon Powder – Adds a fragrant sweetness.
Pistachios – For garnish and a nutty flavor.
Badiyan ka Phool (Star Anise) – Optional, for a more complex aroma.
Ingredients
- 3 tbsp Kashmiri Tea Leaves
- ½ tsp Baking Soda
- ⅛-¼ tsp Salt
- 3 Cardamom Pods
- 1 small piece of Cinnamon Stick (optional)
- 1 cup Ice-Cold Water (mix with ice)
- Finely chopped Pistachios and Almonds (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Brew the Magic
Take your Kashmiri tea leaves, a pinch of baking soda (yes, the secret to pink perfection!), a dash of salt, fragrant cardamom pods, and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Toss them into a pot with 4 cups of cold water. Bring this magical potion to a boil, then let it simmer down for an hour until the liquid reduces by half. Strain out those hardworking tea leaves—they’ve done their job!
Step 2: Make It Pink!
Time to put on your workout gear (just kidding, but you’ll get a good arm stretch). Grab 1 cup of ice-cold water and pour it into the tea concentrate from a height—let gravity do its thing! Now, pour it back and forth between two bowls or drop it back into the pot with a ladle for 5-8 minutes. The result? A frothy, rich pink foam that’s totally Insta-worthy.
Step 3: Create the Kahwa
Take your freshly aerated tea and bring it back to a gentle boil. Voilà, you’ve just created the kahwa—a concentrated elixir of flavor that you can store and use later. (But why wait? Tea time is calling!)
Step 4: Serve the Cozy Vibes
Now for the grand finale! Scoop ⅓ cup of kahwa into a pot, bring it to a boil, and mix in ⅔ cup of milk with a splash of water. Feeling fancy? Toss in an extra cardamom pod for that extra whiff of luxury. Cook it all together for 2-3 minutes, pour it into your favorite cup, and top it with crushed pistachios and almonds. Sip, savor, and let the cozy vibes take over!
Pro Tips for the Perfect Pink Tea/Kashmiri Tea
- Baking Soda: Essential for the signature pink hue. Don’t skip it!
- Garnish Generously: Pistachios and almonds elevate the flavor and presentation.
- Storage: The kahwa can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days, making it easy to enjoy fresh tea quickly.
Conclusion
Kashmiri tea isn’t just a beverage; it’s an experience that brings warmth and comfort to chilly days. Whether you’re indulging yourself or serving it at a gathering, this tea is bound to leave an impression. Try it out, and don’t forget to share your results!
FAQ Section
1. Can I use regular green tea leaves instead of Kashmiri tea leaves?
Unfortunately, no. Kashmiri tea leaves are essential for the authentic flavor and pink color.
2. Why didn’t my tea turn pink?
The aeration process and the quality of Kashmiri tea leaves are critical. Ensure you add baking soda and aerate the tea properly.
3. Can I skip the garnish?
The garnish adds flavor and texture but is optional. You can enjoy the tea plain if you prefer.