Kashmiri Chai

Kashmiri tea, also known as "Kahwa" or "Noon Chai," depending on the preparation, is a traditional beverage originating from the Kashmir region. It is celebrated for its unique flavours, cultural significance, and warming qualities.

Types of Kashmiri Tea:

Kahwa is a fragrant, green tea brewed with spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and saffron. It's often sweetened with sugar or honey and garnished with crushed almonds or pistachios. The flavour is a delicate balance of sweetness and spice, with a hint of bitterness from the green tea.

Kahwa is typically served during special occasions, and celebrations, and as a welcoming drink to guests.

Noon Chai (Pink Tea or Salted Tea)

Noon Chai is made with green tea leaves, milk, baking soda (which gives it its distinctive pink colour), salt, and spices like cardamom, cinnamon, star anise and cloves, depending on the region.

It has a savoury, creamy flavour with a slight tang from the baking soda.

Noon Chai is traditionally enjoyed with bread or pastries, especially during breakfast or on cold winter mornings.

Culturally Kashmiri tea is more than just a beverage; it is deeply embedded in the social and cultural fabric of the Kashmir Valley. It is a symbol of hospitality and is often served during gatherings, festivals, and special occasions. Preparing Kashmiri tea is considered an art, with each household having its unique method and recipe.

Over the last few years, the drink has gained popularity in Western countries and is now more accessible to everyone. Herbal Intentions has developed our own version and preparation method for ease, as preparing this delightful beverage can be challenging, yet highly rewarding.

Kahwa is rich in antioxidants, helps with digestion, boosts metabolism, and is believed to strengthen the immune system.

The combination of tea, milk, and salt is thought to aid digestion and keep the body warm in cold climates. This milky drink is perfect for a bedtime cuppa.

Traditional Preparation:

The preparation of both Kahwa and Noon Chai involves slow brewing to extract the flavours fully. Kahwa is usually brewed in a special kettle called a "Samovar," which adds to its traditional appeal.

After preparing the tea, you can bottle it and store it in the refrigerator for a maximum of 2 weeks in an airtight container. When ready to enjoy a cup, warm up your milk and combine it with the pre-made tea. Add sweetener to taste.