Recipe for Kashmiri Kahwa Tea
Kashmiri Kahwa Tea is a fragrant and flavorful traditional beverage from the Kashmir Valley. Infused with warming spices, saffron, and a touch of sweetness, this tea is perfect for cozy evenings or as a refreshing start to your day. It pairs beautifully with light snacks like biscuits or savory treats.
Equipment
- Saucepan
- Tea strainer or fine mesh sieve
- Wooden spoon
- Ladle
- Serving cups
Ingredients
- 4 Cups Water
- 2 Tsp Kashmiri green tea leaves (or any high-quality green tea)
- 4-5 Strands of saffron
- 1 Small cinnamon stick
- 4 Green cardamom pods (lightly crushed)
- 1-2 Tsp Sugar or honey (optional, to taste)
- 8-10 Almond slices or crushed almonds
- 1 Tsp Dried rose petals (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the baseIn a saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a gentle boil over medium heat.
- Infuse spicesAdd the cinnamon stick, crushed cardamom pods, and saffron strands to the water. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes to release their flavors and aroma.
- Add the tea leavesLower the heat and stir in the Kashmiri green tea leaves. Allow the tea to steep for 2-3 minutes, avoiding over-steeping to prevent bitterness.
- Sweeten (optional)Stir in sugar or honey to taste and mix until fully dissolved.
- Strain and serveUse a tea strainer or fine mesh sieve to strain the tea into serving cups.
- Garnish and enjoyTop each cup with almond slices or crushed almonds, and sprinkle dried rose petals for an authentic and elegant touch. Serve hot and savor the warmth!
Video
Notes
- To intensify the saffron flavor, soak the strands in a tablespoon of warm water for 5 minutes before adding them to the tea.
- Adjust the sweetness to your preference; Kashmiri Kahwa is traditionally only mildly sweet.
- For a richer taste, lightly toast the almonds before using them as garnish.
- Avoid boiling the tea leaves, as it can result in a bitter flavor. Steeping in hot but not boiling water works best.