Kashmiri Pink Chai

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Few drinks stop you in your tracks with their sheer beauty and delicate warmth quite like Kashmiri Pink Chai. This luxurious rose-tinted tea, also known as Noon Chai or Gulabi Chai, is a traditional beverage from the Kashmir region and is a true sensory experience. Its creamy texture, subtle spicing, and pale blush hue make it as comforting as it is exotic.

Unlike your usual cup of black tea, this chai leans on green tea leaves brewed with baking soda—a surprising but magical twist that gives it its signature pink tone. When you pour in cold milk and let it simmer with crushed cardamom, cinnamon, and a sprinkle of nuts, you’re left with a tea that doesn’t just warm your body, but also feels like a treat in every sense.

Why You’ll Love This Kashmiri Pink Chai

This isn’t your everyday tea. Kashmiri Pink Chai is smooth, luxurious, and richly flavored with warm spices, yet remains light and soothing. Its rosy color, achieved through a natural chemical reaction during brewing, adds a wow factor for special occasions, brunch tables, or cozy winter evenings.

Whether you want a comforting drink to unwind or a showstopper to impress your guests, this pink chai delivers. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and can easily be made dairy-free with plant milk alternatives.

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What Kind of Tea Should I Use for Pink Chai?

The key to authentic Kashmiri Pink Chai is using high-quality green tea leaves—preferably a gunpowder or rolled green tea variety. These leaves release the compounds that react with baking soda to create that signature pink tone. Avoid using regular black tea, which won’t produce the same color or flavor.

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Ingredients for the Kashmiri Pink Chai

Each ingredient in this chai plays a vital role in the color, creaminess, or depth of flavor. Here’s what you need:

• Green Tea Leaves – This is the base of the tea. Go for a robust green tea like gunpowder for best results.
• Baking Soda – The not-so-secret ingredient! It reacts with the tea to develop that pinkish hue.
• Cold Water – Used in the initial boil to extract the maximum flavor and color from the tea leaves.
• Whole Milk – Adds creaminess and helps the pink shade bloom. For a lighter version, use half milk and half water.
• Crushed Cardamom Pods – Brings a sweet floral spice that’s essential to pink chai.
• Cinnamon Stick – Adds warmth and a hint of spice.
• Sugar – Balances the salt and enhances the overall taste.
• Salt – Traditional Kashmiri chai often includes a pinch of salt for that unique savory-sweet profile.
• Chopped Nuts (Pistachios & Almonds) – For garnish and texture.

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How To Make the Kashmiri Pink Chai

Step 1: Bloom the Color

Boil green tea leaves in cold water with baking soda for 10-15 minutes until the water turns deep burgundy. This step develops the tea’s base and sets the stage for the color change.

Step 2: Aerate the Brew

Remove from heat and add ice-cold water. Whisk or pour between containers to introduce air. This oxygenation deepens the pink tone.

Step 3: Add the Milk

Return the tea to a simmer, then pour in cold milk. You’ll see the color shift into its iconic pink shade. Simmer gently.

Step 4: Flavor the Chai

Add crushed cardamom, cinnamon, salt, and sugar. Let it all simmer for a few minutes to infuse the flavors.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

Strain into mugs and top with chopped pistachios and almonds. Enjoy warm!

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Serving and Storing Kashmiri Pink Chai

This recipe yields 4 warm, indulgent servings—perfect for small gatherings or weekend treats. Serve it fresh and hot in clear mugs to showcase its signature blush color.

If you have leftovers, let the chai cool completely, then store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop without boiling to preserve the texture and color.

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What to Serve With Kashmiri Pink Chai?

Almond Biscotti

The crunch of nutty biscotti pairs beautifully with the soft, spiced chai.

Pistachio Shortbread

Match the pistachio garnish in the chai with buttery cookies for a complete tea experience.

Samosas

Savory potato-filled pastries contrast perfectly with the chai’s sweetness.

Sweet Paratha

A flaky, lightly sweetened paratha is a traditional and comforting side.

Tea Cakes

Soft vanilla or rose-flavored tea cakes absorb the chai and make every sip feel extra decadent.

Walnut Date Bars

Rich, chewy, and spiced—they echo the earthy notes of the tea.

Paneer Pakoras

For a heartier option, crispy paneer bites are savory enough to make this chai a light meal.

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Want More Cozy Drink Ideas?

If this Kashmiri Pink Chai made you swoon, here are a few other soothing and satisfying drinks you might love:

• Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup for a savory pairing.
• Christmas Frost Fairy Punch if you want more festive sips.
• Chocolate Instant Pudding for a dessert-like finish to your tea moment.
• Healthy Blueberry Oatmeal Muffins to pair with your morning chai.
• Nutella French Toast Casserole for ultimate brunch vibes.

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Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest tea board so you can revisit this soothing pink cup any time you need a cozy moment.

And I’d love to know—did you keep it traditional or put your own spin on it? Maybe a splash of rosewater or a dairy-free twist?

Drop your thoughts and tweaks in the comments below. Sharing is how we learn, and I’m always here for a good chai chat.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks on Nora Nosh Recipes Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feeling great!

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