Kashmiri Pink Tea, also known as Noon Tea, is a traditional beverage from the beautiful region of Kashmir. Known for its enchanting pink color and delightful flavor, this tea holds a special place in the hearts of many. It is more than just a drink; it is a ritual that brings families together. People often sip this tea during the chilly winter months or on special occasions. The process of making Kashmiri Pink Tea is unique and involves some special techniques that make it stand out from other teas.
The distinct preparation of this tea includes using baking soda, which not only alters the color but also enhances the taste. The addition of various spices like cardamom and cinnamon gives this tea an aromatic quality that many find irresistible. The creaminess of the whole milk balanced with a hint of sweetness makes each sip comforting.
In this article, we will explore how to make Kashmiri Pink Tea and delve into various aspects that make it an exceptional drink.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE
There are many reasons to love Kashmiri Pink Tea! First and foremost, it is a feast for the senses. The visual appeal of its vibrant pink color draws you in, while the aroma fills the air with a blend of spices that is both warm and inviting. The taste itself is rich and creamy, offering a unique experience that goes beyond the regular cup of tea.
This tea is perfect for sharing with family and friends. It is often enjoyed during gatherings and celebrations, making it a wonderful addition to social occasions. The soothing properties of the tea can help warm you up on cold days, making it a go-to comfort drink in winter.
Moreover, making Kashmiri Pink Tea is a delightful process. From boiling the water with green tea to watching the color change as milk is added, it is a culinary adventure. Each step reveals a little magic that can be exciting for both new and experienced cooks.
Lastly, Kashmiri Pink Tea is versatile. You can adjust the spices and sweetness to match your taste. Adding garnishes like crushed nuts can enhance the presentation, making it visually appealing as well.
HOW TO MAKE Kashmiri Pink Tea
Making Kashmiri Pink Tea involves a few simple steps that require attention and patience. As we go through the process, you will discover the unique techniques that make this tea special.
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
- Medium-sized saucepan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Strainer
- Cups for serving
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 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)
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS
- Boil Water: Bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan.
- Add Green Tea: Once the water is boiling, add 2 tablespoons of Kashmiri green tea. Boil for about 5 minutes.
- Stir in Baking Soda: After the 5 minutes, stir in 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda. Watch as the water changes to a deep red color. Boil for another 2 minutes.
- Add Spices: Now, add 1-2 star anise, 2 crushed cardamom pods, and a cinnamon stick. Boil for another minute to let the spices infuse.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat and let the tea simmer for 20-30 minutes. This step helps reduce the liquid to about half its original volume, which intensifies its flavor and color.
- Add Salt: After simmering, stir in 1/4 teaspoon of salt and mix well.
- Add Milk: Now, add 2 cups of whole milk to the pan and increase the heat. Bring the tea to a boil, stirring constantly to prevent the milk from burning.
- Observe Color Change: As the milk heats up, you will see the tea turning a beautiful pink color.
- Remove from Heat: Once the tea is at the desired pink shade, remove it from heat.
- Strain and Serve: Strain the tea into cups to remove the spices and tea leaves.
- Sweeten and Garnish: Sweeten with sugar or honey according to taste. You can also add crushed nuts like almonds or pistachios on top for garnish.
- Enjoy: Serve hot and enjoy the comforting warmth and unique flavor of Kashmiri Pink Tea!
HOW TO SERVE Kashmiri Pink Tea
Kashmiri Pink Tea is best served hot. It can be enjoyed on its own or paired with light snacks. The warmth of the tea can enhance the flavors of savory snacks or sweet treats.
Pour the strained tea into beautiful cups to highlight its lovely pink shade. If desired, you can sprinkle some crushed nuts on top for a decorative touch. You can also serve it alongside traditional Kashmiri pastries or other snacks for an authentic experience.
This tea is often enjoyed during gatherings, making it an excellent option for hosting friends and family. Sharing a cup of this special tea can spark conversations and create memorable moments.
STORAGE & FREEZING: Kashmiri Pink Tea
Kashmiri Pink Tea is best enjoyed fresh. However, if you have leftover tea, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be kept for up to 2 days. To serve again, gently reheat the tea on the stove.
Do note that the pink color may fade slightly upon reheating, but the flavor should still be delightful.
Freezing is not recommended for this tea, as the texture may change upon thawing. It’s advisable to enjoy it freshly made for the best experience.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
Kashmiri Pink Tea pairs wonderfully with a variety of snacks. Some popular suggestions include:
- Biscuits: Simple butter biscuits or Kashmiri bakarkhani are a perfect match.
- Cookies: Light cookies with nuts complement the tea beautifully.
- Savory Snacks: Samosas or kachoris can add to the flavors of the tea.
- Fruits: Fresh fruits like apples, oranges, or dates offer a refreshing contrast.
You can also serve it on special occasions alongside a spread of various appetizers, making it a centerpiece at your gathering.
VARIATIONS
While the traditional recipe is fantastic on its own, there are a few variations you can try:
- Cardamom Variation: Adding more cardamom pods can intensify the spice flavor.
- Flavored Milk: For an extra creamy tea, you can use evaporated milk instead of whole milk.
- Nut Milk: Substitute regular milk with almond or coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
- Sweetness Options: Experiment with different sweeteners like jaggery or maple syrup to find your perfect taste.
Feel free to get creative with your own personal touches!
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of tea?
Yes, you can use other types of green tea, but Kashmiri or Himalayan green tea is recommended for authentic flavor.
2. Why does the tea turn pink?
The addition of baking soda changes the pH level and helps give the tea its distinctive pink color when milk is added.
3. How long can I store leftover tea?
You can store leftover Kashmiri Pink Tea in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before serving.
4. Is it possible to make this tea without milk?
Yes, you can enjoy a lighter version by omitting milk, but it will not have the same creamy texture.
MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Kashmiri Pink Tea
To save time, you can prepare the first few steps in advance. Boil the water and tea, then strain and refrigerate the concentrated base. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat the base, add milk, and continue with the remaining steps.
You can also prepare the spice mix ahead of time and store it in an airtight container. This way, you can easily add it when you make the tea.
Kashmiri Pink Tea is a unique and delightful drink that is simple to make yet offers an extraordinary experience. Whether you are preparing it for yourself or sharing it with loved ones, this tea brings warmth and joy to every occasion. Enjoy making your own cup of this magical drink!
This unique pink tea offers a completely different experience from our rose tea, though both provide beautiful, Instagram-worthy colors for your tea collection. For those who appreciate traditional preparation methods, compare it with our royal milk tea to explore different cultural tea traditions. The creamy, salty-sweet profile pairs interestingly with the spiced warmth of our cardamom tea for an adventurous tea tasting session. Explore more international tea recipes and cultural tea traditions on our Pinterest board.
Kashmiri Pink Tea
Ingredients
Method
- Bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan.
- Once the water is boiling, add 2 tablespoons of Kashmiri green tea. Boil for about 5 minutes.
- Stir in 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda. Watch as the water changes to a deep red color. Boil for another 2 minutes.
- Add 1-2 star anise, 2 crushed cardamom pods, and a cinnamon stick. Boil for another minute to let the spices infuse.
- Reduce the heat and let the tea simmer for 20-30 minutes until reduced to half its volume.
- After simmering, stir in 1/4 teaspoon of salt and mix well.
- Add 2 cups of whole milk to the pan and bring to a boil, stirring constantly.
- Once the tea is at the desired pink shade, remove it from heat.
- Strain the tea into cups to remove the spices and tea leaves.
- Sweeten with sugar or honey according to taste and garnish with crushed nuts.
- Serve hot and enjoy the comforting warmth and unique flavor.