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Pink Chai (Noon Tea) Recipe

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4 from 1 review

Kashmiri Pink Chai, also known as Noon Tea, is a traditional warming beverage made by simmering green tea with spices and baking soda, which transforms its color into a beautiful rosy pink. This rich and creamy chai is finished with whole milk and sweetened to taste, offering a unique, comforting flavor perfect for teatime or chilly days.

  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Tea Base

  • 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

Milk & Sweeteners

  • 2 cups Whole milk
  • Sugar or honey to taste

Garnish (Optional)

  • Crushed nuts (e.g. almonds or pistachios)

Instructions

  1. Boil the tea: Bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a saucepan, then add 2 tablespoons of Kashmiri or Himalayan green tea. Boil the tea for about 5 minutes to release the flavor.
  2. Add baking soda: Stir in 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda; this will cause the water to turn a deep red color. Continue boiling the tea for another 2 minutes to deepen the color and flavor.
  3. Add spices: Add 1-2 star anise, 2 crushed cardamom pods, and 1 cinnamon stick to the boiling tea. Boil for 1 more minute to infuse the spices.
  4. Simmer and reduce: Reduce the heat to low and let the tea simmer for 20 to 30 minutes. During this time, the liquid will reduce by about half, concentrating the flavor and rich pink hue.
  5. Season the tea: Stir in 1/4 teaspoon of salt to balance the flavors and mix thoroughly.
  6. Add milk and boil: Pour in 2 cups of whole milk and turn the heat back up, bringing the mixture to a boil. Stir constantly to prevent the milk from burning. As the milk boils, the tea will begin to take on a gentle pink shade.
  7. Strain the chai: Once the chai attains a beautiful pink color, remove the pan from heat. Strain the tea through a fine sieve into cups, removing the tea leaves and spices.
  8. Sweeten and garnish: Add sugar or honey to your preferred sweetness. Optionally, garnish with crushed nuts like almonds or pistachios to add texture and a nutty flavor.
  9. Serve hot: Serve the Kashmiri Pink Chai hot and enjoy its unique flavor and comforting warmth.

Notes

  • Baking soda is crucial for turning the tea’s color to the signature pink; do not skip or substitute.
  • Simmering the tea for 20-30 minutes intensifies the flavor and color; patience yields the best results.
  • Use whole milk for a creamy texture and authentic taste; low-fat alternatives may change the mouthfeel.
  • Adjust sweetness and garnish according to personal preference.
  • Ensure constant stirring when boiling milk to avoid curdling or burning.
  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 55 minutes
  • Category: Beverage
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Kashmiri

Find it online: https://yourdailycook.com/pink-chai-noon-tea-recipe/