Kashmiri Pink Tea, also known as Noon Chai or Sheer Chai, is a unique beverage originating from the picturesque valleys of Kashmir. This exquisite tea is a testament to the rich cultural heritage and culinary traditions of the region. Let’s delve into what makes this tea so special.

First and foremost, Kashmiri Pink Tea boasts a captivating hue that sets it apart from any other tea. Its signature pink color is achieved by the addition of a special ingredient—baking soda. This alkaline substance reacts with the tea leaves, turning the beverage into a delightful shade of pink.

The tea itself is made from green tea leaves, which are carefully brewed in water. But what truly elevates its flavor is the inclusion of a variety of aromatic spices. These spices, such as cinnamon, and cardamom, infuse the tea with a warm and fragrant essence that is both soothing and invigorating.

The taste of Kashmiri Pink Tea is a delightful balance of flavors. It has a slightly salty undertone, which is a departure from the usual sweetness of traditional teas. This flavor profile is complemented by a creamy texture, achieved by the addition of milk during the brewing process.

Kashmiri Pink Tea holds a significant cultural significance in the region. It is commonly served during social gatherings, weddings, and festivals. The tea acts as a symbol of hospitality and is often accompanied by local delicacies like Kashmiri breads and pastries.

Method to Make Kashmiri Pink Tea – Sheer Chai

Ingredients:

1 and 1/2 cups water
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon Kashmiri pink tea leaves
3/4 teaspoon salt
4 cups water
5 green cardamom pods, crushed
2 cups milk
Crushed almonds, for garnish

Instructions:

First, in a pot set on high heat, add 1 and 1/2 cups of water.
Second, add 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda and 1 teaspoon of Kashmiri pink tea leaves to the pot. Stir gently to combine.
Third, allow the mixture to come to a boil on high-medium heat. Let it simmer until the water reduces to approximately 1/4 of its original quantity. This process infuses the tea with its signature pink color.
Next, add 3/4 teaspoon of salt, 4 cups of water, and the crushed green cardamom pods to the pot. Stir well to incorporate the flavors.
Allow the mixture to come to a boil again, ensuring the flavors of the cardamom are infused into the tea.
Once the tea has reached a boil, pour in 2 cups of milk. This addition will create a creamy texture that perfectly complements the aromatic spices.
Stir the tea gently and let it simmer for a few minutes, ensuring it doesn’t boil over.
As a final touch, add crushed almonds to enhance the taste and presentation of the tea.
Finally, strain the tea using a fine-mesh sieve into cups or a teapot. This step ensures a smooth and refined texture, free from any loose tea leaves or cardamom pods.

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