Kashmiri Kahwa

The beauty of Kashmir can also be seen in its tea. The people love their Kahwa (Kashmiri tea). It resonates with the Indian spices. It has almonds, saffron and it looks pretty just like the place it comes from !

Traditionally, the Kahwa is made in a Samovar, a metal container. And if you do like a bite in your tea this is the tea for you. Since it has chopped almonds in it. The crushed almonds and saffron are the soul of this tea.

Imagine sipping Kahwa when you are in the valley, surrounded by the snow-clad moutains !! So magical !! For me it’s beyond words.

But the question is, can we treat ourselves to a Kahwa in the comfort of our homes ? Ofcourse, we can.

Let’s see how :

For that, we firstly we need to get our hands on the Kashmiri green tea. (it is available in the super markets). The trick is to just simmer the tea for a couple of minutes and not boil it. Green tea is delicate, hence over boiling makes it turn bitter.

Ingredients :

Kashmiri green tea leaves 4 tsp
Saffron (kesar) strands ¼ tsp
Few dried rose petals
Cinnamon (dalchini) 1 small piece
Crushed cardamoms (elaichi) 2
Cloves 2
2 tbsp honey
2 tbsp finely chopped almonds (badam)

For the garnish :

A few saffron strands and dried rose petals

Method :

To make Kashmiri kahwa, combine the saffron strands and 1 tbsp of warm water in a small bowl. Stir well and keep aside
Boil 2 cups of water in a saucepan, add the cinnamon stick, cardamom and cloves for approx. 3 to 4 minutes on a medium flame.
Lower the flame, add the Kashmiri green tea leaves, mix well and cook for 2 to 3 minutes. Keep stirring occasionally.
Strain the tea in a deep bowl using a strainer.
In the same saucepan add the saffron-water mixture, rose petals, chopped almonds and honey. Mix well and cook on a slow flame for 1 minute, while stirring continuously.
Then to this mix, add the strained tea green tea. Mix well.
Serve the Kashmiri Kahwa immediately.