Kashmiri Pink Chai Noon Tea
Ingredients:
4 cups water
2 tbsp Kashmiri/Himalayan green tea or other green tea
tsp baking soda
12 star anise
2 cardamom pods, crushed
1 cinnamon stick
tsp salt
2 cups whole milk
Sugar or honey to taste
Crushed nuts e.g., almonds, pistachios for garnish optional
Directions:
Brew the Tea Base:
In a saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil.
Add the green tea and boil for about 5 minutes.
Create the Signature Color:
Stir in teaspoon of baking soda. The liquid will turn a deep red.
Continue boiling for another 2 minutes.
Add Spices for Depth:
Add star anise, crushed cardamom pods, and a cinnamon stick.
Boil for another minute, allowing the flavors to blend.
Reduce and Concentrate:
Lower the heat and let the tea simmer for 2030 minutes.
Allow it to reduce to about half its original volume for a rich, intense flavor.
Add Salt and Milk for the Final Touch:
Stir in teaspoon of salt.
Pour in 2 cups of whole milk and increase the heat. Stir constantly to prevent the milk from burning.
As the milk boils, watch the magic happenthe tea will turn a beautiful pink!
Strain and Serve:
Once the chai reaches a lovely pink hue, remove it from heat.
Strain it into cups to remove the tea leaves and whole spices.
Sweeten and Garnish:
Add sugar or honey to taste.
For a traditional touch, garnish with crushed pistachios or almonds.
Enjoy!
Serve hot and savor the unique, comforting flavors of Kashmiri Pink Chai!