Pink Chai From Kashmir (Printable Version)
# What You'll Need:
01 -
4 cups fresh water
02 -
2 tablespoons mountain green tea or any green tea variety
03 -
1/2 teaspoon sodium bicarbonate
04 -
1-2 whole star anise pods
05 -
2 smashed cardamom seeds
06 -
1 stick of cinnamon
07 -
1/4 teaspoon table salt
08 -
2 cups full-fat milk
09 -
Sweetener like sugar or honey based on preference
10 -
Chopped nuts (such as almonds) for topping (if desired)
# Steps to Follow:
01 -
Pour water into a pot and bring to a rolling boil, then drop in green tea leaves and let them cook for roughly 5 minutes.
02 -
Add 1/2 teaspoon sodium bicarbonate and mix well. Watch as the liquid transforms to a rich red shade. Let it bubble for 2 more minutes.
03 -
Toss in your star anise, broken cardamom pods, and cinnamon stick, then allow everything to bubble together for one more minute.
04 -
Turn the heat lower and let the mixture gently bubble for 20-30 minutes until it shrinks to about half, making the flavor stronger and the color deeper.
05 -
Sprinkle in a quarter teaspoon of salt and stir everything together.
06 -
Now add your 2 cups of full-fat milk and turn up the flame until it boils. Keep stirring so the milk won't stick to the bottom. You'll notice the drink turning a lovely pink shade.
07 -
When your drink shows a pretty pink color, take it off the heat. Pour through a strainer to catch all the tea leaves and spices. Add your favorite sweetener to taste. If you want, top with some crushed nuts like almonds. Serve while it's hot!
# Additional Tips:
01 -
Letting the brew bubble slowly for 20-30 minutes is key to getting that eye-catching color and deep taste.