Kashmiri Pink Chai Delight (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
01 -
4 cups water
02 -
2 tablespoons Kashmiri/Himalayan green tea or other green tea
03 -
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
04 -
1-2 star anise
05 -
2 crushed cardamom pods
06 -
1 cinnamon stick
07 -
1/4 teaspoon salt
08 -
2 cups whole milk
09 -
Sugar or honey to taste
10 -
Crushed nuts (e.g., almonds) for garnish (optional)
# Instructions:
01 -
Bring the water to a boil in a saucepan, add the green tea, and boil for about 5 minutes.
02 -
Stir in 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda. The water will turn a deep red color. Continue boiling for another 2 minutes.
03 -
Add the star anise, crushed cardamom pods, and cinnamon stick and boil for another minute.
04 -
Reduce the heat and simmer the tea for 20-30 minutes until it reduces to about half its original volume, intensifying the flavor and color.
05 -
Stir in a quarter teaspoon of salt and mix well.
06 -
Add 2 cups of whole milk and increase the heat, bringing the tea to a boil. Stir constantly to avoid burning the milk. As the milk boils, the tea will begin to turn pink.
07 -
Once the chai is a beautiful pink color, remove it from heat. Strain it into cups to remove the spices and tea leaves. Sweeten with sugar or honey according to taste. Optionally, garnish the tea with crushed nuts like pistachios or almonds. Serve hot and enjoy.
# Notes:
01 -
Simmering the tea for 20-30 minutes is essential to achieve the vibrant color and rich flavor.