🍵 Noon Chai (Kashmiri Pink Tea) — Traditional Recipe

🍵 Noon Chai (Kashmiri Pink Tea) — Traditional Recipe

Yields: 4 cups

🧂 Ingredients

Tea Base

• 2 tsp loose-leaf green tea (Gunpowder tea is preferred)
• 1/4 tsp baking soda (the secret to the pink color)
• 4 cups water (approx. 1 liter)
• 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)

For Finishing

• 1 cup whole milk (or creamy plant-based milk)
• 2–3 cardamom pods (crushed)
• 1 cinnamon stick (optional)
• Crushed pistachios or almonds (for garnish)

🔥 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Tea Concentrate (Essential Step)

1. Bring the 4 cups of water to a boil.
2. Add the green tea leaves and baking soda.
3. Boil over medium heat for 20 to 30 minutes.
4. Stir occasionally during this time.
   • 👉 The liquid will turn a deep reddish-brown. This is normal—the pink color only appears later.

2. Oxygenation (The “Pink Trick” 💗)

1. Remove the tea from the heat.
2. Using a ladle, scoop the liquid and pour it back into the pot from a height.
3. Repeat this aeration process for 1–2 minutes.
   • 👉 This incorporates oxygen into the tea, which helps develop the pink base.

3. Transforming it into Pink Tea

1. Place the tea back on the stove.
2. Add the milk, cardamom, and cinnamon.
3. Simmer for another 5–10 minutes.
   • ✨ This is where the magic happens: the tea turns a beautiful pink!

4. Adjust the Flavor

1. Stir in the salt.
2. Adjust the richness by adding more milk if desired.
3. Strain the tea.

5. Serving

Serve hot, topped with:

• Crushed pistachios or almonds.
• Milk froth (optional).
  • 💡 In Kashmir, it is traditionally served with naan or savory biscuits.

😮 Why does Noon Chai turn pink?

• The Science: The baking soda reacts with the tea’s antioxidants (polyphenols) and changes the pH level.
• The Process: Aeration (pouring from a height) further oxidizes the tea.
• The Result: When the white milk is added to the dark, oxidized base, the signature pink hue is revealed.

✨ Tips for the Perfect Pink

• Quality Matters: Use high-quality green tea leaves.
• Patience: Do not rush the boiling time; the base needs to be dark.
• Balance: Do not overdo the baking soda, or the tea will taste soapy or bitter.

🌸 Benefits & Precautions ⚠️

Benefits: Noon Chai offers antioxidants, calming effects, and a sense of comfort. It can aid digestion, boost mental focus, and warm the body.

Precautions: Contains caffeine, dairy, and sodium. Consume in moderation if you have caffeine sensitivity, hypertension, or lactose intolerance. Pregnant women or individuals with gastric issues should consult a professional before regular consumption.