In the beautiful valleys of Kashmir, Kashmir’s Tea is more than a beverage; it is an emotion, recreation, refreshing drink, medicine, cherished tradition, and what not. So, let’s delve into and explore the true essence of the spectacular varieties of Kashmiri teas the people of Kashmir drink.
Kehwa, a most popular Karha among Kashmiri
Kehwa is a blend of green tea, water, almonds, cardamom, and saffron (optional). It fascinates people with its dawn hue and slight mustard soothing color and offers a refreshing start to the day or a comforting respite. When crushed black pepper powder is added to it, it becomes a soothing and effective Karha or Kadha for colds and flu.
Sheer Chai or Pink Tea
Sheer Chai, formally called Noon Chai among the Kashmiri people or Koshurs, captivates with its pink hue and savory taste. It is often enjoyed with Kulch or Kulcha (a gigantic round, crunchy, crumbly, textured sweet and slight salty biscuit baked exclusively using ghee made by Kashmiri bakers called Kanduras).
Mostly, the day of every Kashmiri person starts with a cup of Sheer Chai. It also works as a medicinal tea to cure, detoxify, and keep your stomach healthy.
Mieth Chai or Dhoodh Chai
Mieth Chai, or Dhoodh Chai, offers a creamy white indulgence with slight green tea leaves, milk and sugar. It calms and provides solace on the cold winter evenings. It is mostly consumed during the fasting period by the Koshurs.
Lipton tea or milk tea
Lipton tea or milk tea, is popular among the people of Kashmir after they migrated from Kashmir to lower regions of India such as Jammu, Delhi etc. It is prepared mostly with milk or milk powder (in an emergency), tea leaf powder, milk, sugar, and water.
Cinnamon or Lipton Dalchini tea
Lastly, Lipton Dalchini tea adds a touch of spice with its infusion of cinnamon in the Lipton or milk tea. It creates a cozy blend perfect for unwinding after a long day.
Kashmir’s tea culture invites everyone to enjoy its flavors and embrace the rich heritage of the region with every sip.
Mallika Sadhu is a journalist committed to revealing the raw, unfiltered truth. Mallika's work is grounded in a dedication to transparency and integrity, aiming to present clear and impactful stories that matter. Through comprehensive reporting and honest storytelling, she strives to contribute to provide narratives that genuinely inform and engage. When not dwelling in the world of journalism, she is immersed in the colors of her canvas and pages of her journal.
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