Beautiful to behold and soothing to sip, Kashmiri Pink Chai (also known as Noon Chai) is a unique tea experience unlike anything you’ve tried before. This creamy, spiced tea gets its stunning blush-pink color from a careful brewing process and a dash of baking soda—a hallmark of traditional Kashmiri preparation. Infused with cardamom, star anise, and sometimes saffron or cinnamon, it’s both delicate and aromatic. Finished with milk and often topped with crushed pistachios or almonds, it’s more than a beverage—it’s a tradition, a ritual, and a conversation starter.
Why You’ll Love This Kashmiri Pink Chai Recipe
Gorgeous color and elegant presentation.
Subtly spiced, rich, and comforting.
Great for impressing guests or enjoying a peaceful moment.
Naturally caffeine-free if made with green tea.
A cultural treat with a story in every cup.
Ingredients for Kashmiri Pink Chai Recipe
Gather these items and prepare to impress—your taste buds will thank you.
Water: The base of your chai, it’s essential for brewing the tea.
Kashmiri/Himalayan green tea: This special tea gives the chai its unique flavor. If you can’t find it, any good quality green tea will do.
Baking soda: A key player in achieving that gorgeous pink hue. It reacts with the tea to create a beautiful color.
Star anise: This spice adds a sweet, licorice-like flavor that complements the tea beautifully.
Cardamom pods: Crushed for maximum flavor, cardamom brings warmth and a hint of spice.
Cinnamon stick: A classic spice that adds depth and a comforting aroma to the chai.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances the overall flavor, balancing the sweetness.
Whole milk: This is what makes the chai creamy and rich. You can substitute with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
Sugar or honey: Sweeten to your liking. Adjust based on your taste preference.
Crushed nuts: Optional, but a sprinkle of pistachios or almonds on top adds a delightful crunch and visual appeal.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s move on to the fun part—making this delightful chai!
How to Make Kashmiri Pink Chai Recipe
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the steps to create this delightful Kashmiri Pink Chai. Each step is crucial, so pay attention to the details. Trust me, the result will be worth it!
Step 1: Boil the Water and Tea
Start by bringing 4 cups of water to a rolling boil in a saucepan. Once it’s bubbling, add 2 tablespoons of Kashmiri green tea. This specific tea is essential for that unique flavor profile. Let it boil for about 5 minutes. The longer you boil, the richer the flavor will be.
Step 2: Add Baking Soda
Next, stir in 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda. This is where the magic happens! The baking soda reacts with the tea, transforming the water into a deep red color. Continue boiling for another 2 minutes. This step is vital for achieving that stunning pink hue later on.
Step 3: Infuse with Spices
Now, it’s time to add some warmth. Toss in 1-2 star anise, 2 crushed cardamom pods, and a cinnamon stick. These spices will infuse the tea with aromatic flavors. Allow the mixture to boil for another minute, letting those delightful scents fill your kitchen.
Step 4: Simmer the Tea
Reduce the heat and let the tea simmer for 20-30 minutes. This slow cooking process is crucial for developing a rich, complex flavor. As it simmers, the tea will reduce to about half its original volume, intensifying both the taste and color.
Step 5: Add Salt
After simmering, stir in a quarter teaspoon of salt. It might seem odd, but this little pinch enhances the overall taste. It balances the sweetness and brings out the flavors of the spices beautifully.
Step 6: Incorporate Milk
Now, add 2 cups of whole milk to the pot. Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a boil again. Stir constantly to prevent the milk from burning. As it boils, watch the tea transform into a beautiful pink color. This is the moment you’ve been waiting for!
Step 7: Strain and Sweeten
Once the chai has reached that lovely pink hue, remove it from heat. Strain the tea into cups to remove the spices and tea leaves. Now, sweeten it to your liking with sugar or honey. Adjust the sweetness based on your personal preference; it’s all about what makes you happy!
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Finally, serve your Kashmiri Pink Chai hot. If you like, garnish with crushed nuts like pistachios or almonds for an extra touch. Take a moment to savor the unique flavor and comforting warmth of this delightful beverage. Enjoy every sip!
Tips for Success
Use fresh Kashmiri green tea for the best flavor.
Don’t skip the simmering step; it’s key for rich taste.
Adjust the baking soda carefully; too much can affect the flavor.
Experiment with spices to find your perfect blend.
For a creamier chai, use whole milk or a milk alternative.
Equipment Needed
Saucepan: A medium-sized pot works best for boiling and simmering.
Strainer: A fine mesh strainer helps remove tea leaves and spices.
Measuring spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
Whisk or spoon: To stir the chai while boiling.
Variations of Kashmiri Pink Chai Recipe
Spiced Kashmiri Pink Chai: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves for an extra layer of warmth and spice.
Vegan Kashmiri Pink Chai: Substitute whole milk with almond, oat, or coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
Herbal Infusion: Incorporate dried rose petals or lavender for a floral twist that enhances the chai’s aroma.
Chai Latte Style: Froth the milk before adding it to the tea for a creamy, café-style experience.
Sweet Variations: Experiment with flavored syrups like vanilla or caramel to add a unique sweetness to your chai.
Serving Suggestions for Kashmiri Pink Chai Recipe
Accompany with biscuits: Serve with buttery shortbread or spiced cookies for a delightful pairing.
Pair with savory snacks: Enjoy alongside samosas or pakoras for a perfect balance of flavors.
Presentation: Use clear glass cups to showcase the beautiful pink color of the chai.
Garnish: Top with crushed nuts for added texture and visual appeal.
FAQs about Kashmiri Pink Chai Recipe
What makes Kashmiri Pink Chai different from regular chai?
Kashmiri Pink Chai stands out due to its unique brewing process and the addition of baking soda, which gives it that stunning pink color. The blend of spices like cardamom and star anise also adds a distinct flavor profile that sets it apart from regular chai.
Can I make Kashmiri Pink Chai without Kashmiri green tea?
Absolutely! While Kashmiri green tea is traditional, you can substitute it with any high-quality green tea. Just keep in mind that the flavor may vary slightly, but it will still be delicious!
How can I adjust the sweetness of my Kashmiri Pink Chai?
Sweetening your chai is all about personal preference. Start with a small amount of sugar or honey, then taste and adjust as needed. You can always add more, but it’s hard to take it out once it’s in!
Is Kashmiri Pink Chai suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes! You can easily make a vegan version by substituting whole milk with almond, oat, or coconut milk. This way, you can enjoy the rich flavors without any dairy.
How long can I store leftover Kashmiri Pink Chai?
Leftover Kashmiri Pink Chai can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just reheat it gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore its creamy texture.
Final Thoughts
Crafting a cup of Kashmiri Pink Chai is more than just following a recipe; it’s about creating a moment of warmth and connection. Each sip transports you to the serene valleys of Kashmir, where the rich flavors and vibrant color come together in perfect harmony. Whether you’re enjoying it alone or sharing it with friends, this delightful beverage brings comfort and joy. So, gather your ingredients, embrace the brewing process, and let the enchanting aroma fill your kitchen. Trust me, once you experience this unique chai, it will become a cherished ritual in your home.
Kashmiri Pink Chai is a traditional tea known for its unique flavor and vibrant pink color, achieved through a special brewing process.
Ingredients
Scale
4 cups of water
2 tablespoons of Kashmiri/Himalayan green tea (or other green tea)
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1–2 star anise
2 cardamom pods, crushed
1 Cinnamon stick
1/4 teaspoon of salt
2 cups of whole milk
Sugar or honey to taste
Crushed nuts (like pistachios or almonds) for garnish (optional)
Instructions
In a saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Add the Kashmiri green tea leaves and boil for about 5 minutes.
Stir in 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda. The water will turn a deep red color. Continue boiling for another 2 minutes.
Add the star anise, crushed cardamom pods, and cinnamon stick to the boiling tea. Allow the mixture to boil for another minute.
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.
Stir in a quarter teaspoon of salt and mix well.
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.
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. Garnish with crushed nuts like pistachios or almonds if desired.
Serve hot and enjoy the unique flavor and comforting warmth of Kashmiri Pink Chai!
Notes
The pink color is a result of the reaction between the tea leaves and baking soda.
Allowing the tea to simmer is crucial for developing its rich flavor.
Adjust the sweetness according to personal preference.
