Pink Tea-Kashmiri Chai

Pink Tea-Kashmiri Chai: A Warm Embrace from the Himalayas

In the heart of the Kashmir Valley, a unique and cherished beverage warms both body and soul: Kashmiri Chai, also known as Pink Tea. This traditional tea, with its distinctive pink hue and salty flavor, is more than just a drink; it’s a cultural symbol, a social ritual, and a source of comfort amidst the breathtaking landscapes of the region.

What is Pink Tea-Kashmiri Chai?

Pink Tea-Kashmiri Chai is a traditional tea beverage made from special green tea leaves, milk, salt/sugar and baking soda. The unique pink color is a result of a chemical reaction between the baking soda and the chlorophyll in the green tea leaves during the prolonged brewing process. It’s often garnished with crushed almonds or pistachios, adding a touch of elegance and texture.

What is Pink Tea-Kashmiri Chai Called in Different Languages?

• English: Kashmiri Chai, Pink Tea
• Urdu: کشمیری چائے (Kashmiri Chai)
• Kashmiri: گُلابي چائے (Gulabi Chai)

Nutritional Facts and Nutritional Value

It offers following nutritional benefits:

• Calcium: Due to the milk content, it provides a good source of calcium, essential for bone health.
• Protein: Milk also contributes to the protein content.
• Antioxidants: Green tea contains polyphenols, including catechins, which have antioxidant properties.
• Minerals: Trace amounts of minerals from the tea leaves and milk.
• Healthy Fats (from nuts): If garnished with nuts, it provides healthy fats.

Important Note: The sodium content is higher than typical sweet teas due to the salt used in preparation. Some people also make it sweet instead of salty.

Benefits of Pink Tea-Kashmiri Chai

While scientific research on Kashmiri Chai specifically is limited, its ingredients and preparation methods suggest several potential benefits:

• Warmth and Comfort: The warm, milky beverage provides a sense of comfort, especially in cold climates.
• Digestive Aid: The baking soda used in the preparation may help neutralize stomach acid and aid digestion.
• Source of Energy: The combination of milk and tea provides a source of energy.
• Potential Antioxidant Benefits: Green tea is known for its antioxidant properties, which may help protect against cellular damage.
• Rich in Calcium: Use of milk helps to keep bones strong.
• Social and Cultural Significance: Sharing Kashmiri Chai is a social ritual, fostering connection and community.

How to Prepare Kashmiri Chai (7 – 10 Cups)

1. Combine all the kahwa ingredients (3 Tab.S Green Tea leaves, 1/3 T.S Baking Soda, 1/4 T.S salt or Sugar to taste, 4 cups water, Cinnamon stick, 3 Cardamom, 1 cup ice cold water) in the pot and bring it to a boil.
2. Simmer for about an hour to reduce by half, if you need ten extra minutes then take them!
3. Turn the stove off and strain the tea leaves (watch the color)
4. Pour in the ICE-COLD water and aerate with a ladle, this is the only hard part. Spend a good 5-7 minutes ladling the tea from a height, the color of the kahwa and especially the foam as it hits the water will change.

Storing the Kahwa

This recipe (which can be easily halved) makes a generous amount of kahwa. You can store it in the fridge for up to two weeks.

Making Chai from the Kahwa

For every one cup of tea, you want to make simply take ⅓ cup kahwa, bring it to a boil stovetop and add ⅔ cup milk to the mix. Bring it to a simmer, add in the nuts and serve with some sugar on the side.

Secret tip: Adding a tiny splash of cream at this point will really take it up a notch!

Important Considerations

• Sodium Content: Due to the salt content, individuals with high blood pressure should consume it in moderation.
• Milk Allergies or Lactose Intolerance: Individuals with milk allergies or lactose intolerance should avoid or modify the beverage.
• Baking Soda: Excessive consumption of baking soda can have adverse effects.

Pink Tea-Kashmiri Chai is more than just a beverage; it’s a cultural experience that embodies the warmth and hospitality of the region. Its unique flavor and preparation methods make it a cherished tradition that continues to be enjoyed by generations.

Disclaimer

The information provided on this website is for general knowledge and informational purposes only. Individual results may vary. We do not guarantee the efficacy of any product sold on this site. For optimal health benefits, incorporate our teas into a balanced lifestyle that includes a healthy diet and regular exercise.

Our products are intended for dietary use only and are not intended to diagnose, treat, prevent or cure any disease. They should not be considered as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Consult with your physician before use, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medications, or have any existing health conditions.

By purchasing and using our products, you agree to release us from any liability arising from your use of the products. Feel free to contact us with any question or concern.

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FAQs

Q. Does Pink Tea-Kashmiri Chai have Caffeine?

It is brewed from green tea leaves which have caffeine so Kashmiri Chai definitely does too! Green teas can have between 30-50 mg of caffeine.

Q. Why is Kashmiri Tea pink?

During the first cook the green tea leaves react with alkaline baking soda to create a maroon base for the tea. Then when you add ice cold water you essentially shock the tea into preserving its color, and then aerate to enhance it.

Ref:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Noon_chai

https://www.flourandspiceblog.com/karachi-style-kashmiri-chai-pink-tea/

https://www.quora.com/What-are-the-amazing-health-benefits-of-Kashmiri-Kahwa-Tea