Kashmiri Chai Recipe, also called Noon Chai, is a warm and comforting drink. It has a soft pink color and salty taste. This tea is very special in Kashmiri culture.
People enjoy it during cold mornings and family gatherings. The tea feels rich, creamy and soothing. Many drink it with bread or snacks.
In this guide, you will learn How to make Kashmiri Chai Recipe at home easily. You will also see the full Ingredients for Kashmiri Chai Recipe explained simply.
My Experience With This Recipe
I first tasted Noon Chai on a cold winter evening. The warmth felt calming and cozy. The color surprised me at first. It looked soft pink and beautiful. The salty taste was new but comforting.
I later learned to make it at home. Now, I prepare it when guests visit. Everyone enjoys the taste and asks for more. This Kashmiri Chai Recipe always brings warmth and smiles.
Recipe Card info
- Recipe Name: Kashmiri Chai (Noon Chai)
- Servings: 4 cups
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Course: Beverage
- Cuisine: Kashmiri
- Calories: 120 kcal per serving
Equipment List
- Saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Tea strainer
- Measuring cups
- Small bowl
Ingredients You Need for Kashmiri Chai Recipe
- Kashmiri green tea leaves – 2 teaspoons
- Water – 4 cups
- Baking soda – 1 pinch
- Milk – 1 cup
- Salt – ½ teaspoon, or to taste
- Star anise – 1 piece
- Cinnamon stick – 1 small
- Crushed cardamom – 2 pods
- Chopped almonds – 2 tablespoons
Instructions
1. Boil Water and Tea Leaves
Add water to a saucepan. Add green tea leaves and baking soda. Boil on medium heat for ten minutes.
2. Whisk the Tea
Use a wooden spoon to whisk the tea gently. This helps bring out the pink color.
3. Reduce the Tea
Let the tea simmer until water reduces by half. Color should turn deep reddish brown.
4. Add Cold Water
Add half cup cold water. Boil again. This step helps develop the pink color.
5. Strain the Tea
Strain the tea into the same pan. Remove tea leaves completely.
6. Add Milk
Add milk slowly to the strained tea. Stir well. The tea should turn soft pink.
7. Add Spices and Salt
Add salt, cinnamon, star anise and cardamom. Stir gently and simmer five minutes.
8. Taste and Adjust
Taste the tea. Adjust salt or milk as needed. Do not add sugar traditionally.
9. Garnish
Pour tea into cups. Garnish with chopped almonds on top.
10. Serve Hot
Serve Kashmiri Chai hot. Enjoy its creamy texture and soothing warmth.
Recipe Tips
- Always use Kashmiri green tea leaves
- Do not skip baking soda
- Whisk well for proper color
- Use whole milk for creaminess
- Keep heat medium, not high
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Fat | 6 g |
| Carbs | 10 g |
| Calcium | 150 mg |
Serving Suggestions
Serve Kashmiri Chai hot in small cups. It tastes best with traditional breads. The salty flavor pairs well with baked snacks. Many people enjoy it during breakfast or evening tea time. It feels perfect on cold days.
Best Sides To Serve With
- Kulcha bread
- Girda bread
- Salt biscuits
- Buttered toast
- Kashmiri naan
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftover tea in the fridge for one day. Reheat gently on low heat. Do not boil again. Stir well before serving. Fresh tea always tastes best. Avoid microwaving if possible.
Kashmiri Chai Recipe (Noon Chai)
Ingredients
- Kashmiri green tea leaves – 2 teaspoons
- Water – 4 cups
- Baking soda – 1 pinch
- Milk – 1 cup
- Salt – ½ teaspoon or to taste
- Star anise – 1 piece
- Cinnamon stick – 1 small
- Crushed cardamom – 2 pods
- Chopped almonds – 2 tablespoons
Instructions
Boil Water and Tea Leaves
- Add water to a saucepan. Add green tea leaves and baking soda. Boil on medium heat for ten minutes.
Whisk the Tea
- Use a wooden spoon to whisk the tea gently. This helps bring out the pink color.
Reduce the Tea
- Let the tea simmer until water reduces by half. Color should turn deep reddish brown.
Add Cold Water
- Add half cup cold water. Boil again. This step helps develop the pink color.
Strain the Tea
- Strain the tea into the same pan. Remove tea leaves completely.
Add Milk
- Add milk slowly to the strained tea. Stir well. The tea should turn soft pink.
Add Spices and Salt
- Add salt, cinnamon, star anise and cardamom. Stir gently and simmer five minutes.
Taste and Adjust
- Taste the tea. Adjust salt or milk as needed. Do not add sugar traditionally.
Garnish
- Pour tea into cups. Garnish with chopped almonds on top.
Serve Hot
- Serve Kashmiri Chai hot. Enjoy its creamy texture and soothing warmth.
Notes
- Always use Kashmiri green tea leaves
- Do not skip baking soda
- Whisk well for proper color
- Use whole milk for creaminess
- Keep heat medium, not high
FAQs about Kashmiri Chai Recipe
Why is my Kashmiri Chai not turning pink?
The pink color needs baking soda and whisking. Also, tea must boil long enough. Milk added too early prevents color change.
Can I make Kashmiri Chai without baking soda?
Baking soda helps color development. Without it, the tea may stay brown. Use a very small pinch only.
Is Kashmiri Chai sweet or salty?
Traditional Noon Chai is salty. Some people add sugar, but that changes the authentic taste.
Can I use regular green tea?
Regular green tea will not give the same color or taste. Kashmiri tea leaves are best for this recipe.
Is Kashmiri Chai healthy?
Yes, it provides warmth, hydration and calcium from milk. Almonds add healthy fats and nutrients.
Conclusion
Kashmiri Chai Recipe is more than just tea. It is comfort in a cup. The creamy texture and soft pink color feel special. This recipe uses simple steps and basic tools.
Anyone can make it at home with patience. If you want to learn How to make Kashmiri Chai Recipe, follow this guide. Enjoy it slowly and share it with loved ones.
Sara Collins is a food blogger at TastyDive. She shares simple and family-friendly recipes made with everyday ingredients. Her mission is to help home cooks enjoy tasty meals without stress.
