- Kahwa Tea has been a part of Kashmiri culture for centuries and is often served as a welcome drink to guests in homes and at formal gatherings.
- It is a symbol of hospitality and warmth, reflecting the cultural values of the Kashmiri people. Moreover, the preparation of Kahwa Tea involves a blend of traditional Kashmiri spices, which are known to have medicinal properties.
- For instance, saffron is use in the tea, which is known to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Similarly, cardamom use in the tea is known to aid digestion and relieve nausea. Thus, Kahwa Tea is not just a delicious drink but also has health benefits and is considered a remedy for various ailments in Kashmiri folk medicine.
- In addition, Kahwa Tea is also an essential part of Kashmiri cuisine and is often paired with traditional Kashmiri dishes like Rogan Josh, Gushtaba, and Tabak Maaz. The combination of Kahwa Tea with these dishes complements the rich and bold flavors of Kashmiri cuisine, making it a complete culinary experience.
About Kahwa
- Kahwa (also spelled Kehwa Chai) is a traditional Kashmiri green tea, delicately flavored with aromatic spices like cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, and enriched with saffron strands. Known for its soothing qualities, this fragrant tea is cherished for both its flavor and warming properties.
- Widely consumed across Kashmir, Kahwa is especially popular during the harsh winter months when it helps ward off the chill and rejuvenates the body. The infusion of saffron and whole spices provides instant warmth and comfort, making it a beloved household remedy against the cold.
- Although typically associated with winter, Kahwa can be enjoyed year-round, offering a refreshing yet calming experience in every sip.
- Traditionally, Kahwa is brewed in a Samovar, a brass or copper kettle with a central fire chamber. This unique design uses live coals to keep the tea hot for hours, while a surrounding compartment boils water and brews the tea with its ingredients. Families often prepare large quantities and store it in the Samovar to enjoy warm servings throughout the day.
- Kahwa is usually served garnished with finely slivered nuts and dried fruits—almonds being the most common, followed by pistachios and cashews—adding a subtle crunch and richness to the drink.
Kashmiri Kahwa Ingredients
- Green tea leaves – Use any good brand of green tea leaves — preferably organic green tea. Some variations of kahwa are also made without green tea, relying on only spices. If you are in need of a caffeine-free sipper, feel free to omit the green tea.
- Spices – Essentially, kahwa is made up of just two main spices: cardamom and cinnamon. Apart from these two fragrant spices, some variations also use cloves and saffron.
- Rose petals – For some mild, sweet, fragrant notes, I also add dried rose petals. I dry the rosebuds from my terrace garden and use them in kahwa. Rose petals are an optional ingredient, and you can skip them.
- Nuts – Slivered or sliced almonds are commonly added in kahwa. In place of almonds, walnuts can also be used.
- Sweetener – For the sweetener, I use unrefined cane sugar or raw sugar. Honey is often suggested in other recipes, but I do not recommend adding honey to a hot brewed tea as honey gets poisonous when it gets heated. For a sugar-free kahwa, just skip adding sugar.
Kahwa Tea Premix Benefits
Kahwa Tea is not only delicious, but it also has many health benefits. Green tea is known for its antioxidant properties, which help fight free radicals that cause damage to cells in the body. The spices used in Kahwa Tea also have health benefits. For example, cardamom is known to aid digestion, while cinnamon can help lower blood sugar levels. Saffron has antioxidant properties and can also help with mood and anxiety. Cloves have anti-inflammatory properties and can help with dental health.
- Green tea is rich in antioxidants and natural polyphenols that keep the system youthful and vigorous
- Cardamom enhances digestion and also alleviates headaches
- Cinnamon keeps the body warm
- Saffron, which is rich in Vitamin B12, Vitamin E, and Vitamin C and also strengthens immunity
- It is a good stressbuster and improves metabolism thus helping in weight loss
- Kahwa tea also helps in maintaining oral hygiene
Kashmiri kahwa tea leaves and bags
Traditionally, Kashmiri Kahwa Tea is made with loose green tea leaves, which are mixed with Kashmiri spices and boiled in water. The tea is then strained and sweetened with honey or sugar. However, to make the process more convenient, Kashmiri Kahwa Tea is also available in tea premix and Kashmiri kahwa buy online on amazon at Best Price. The tea bags contain the same blend of green tea and spices and can be brewed in hot water for a quick and easy cup of Kahwa Tea.
If you want to try making Kashmiri Kahwa Tea at home, it’s easy to do so with just a few ingredients and steps. And if you’re looking for the best Kashmiri Kahwa Tea online, Tea Culture of the World has got you covered.
How to Make Kahwa Tea
To make Kashmiri Kahwa Tea at home, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup water
- 1 tsp Kashmiri green tea leaves
- 2 green cardamom pods
- 2 cloves
- A pinch of saffron
- A small piece of cinnamon
- Honey or sugar to taste
Here are the steps to make Kahwa Tea:
- Boil one cup of water in a saucepan.
- Add the green tea leaves, cardamom pods, cloves, saffron, and cinnamon to the water.
- Let the mixture boil for 2-3 minutes.
- Turn off the heat and let the tea steep for 2-3 minutes.
- Strain the tea into a cup.
- Sweeten the tea with honey or sugar to taste.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
if you’re a tea lover, you must try the unique and delicious Kashmiri Kahwa Tea. With its blend of traditional Kashmiri spices and herbs, it offers a distinct aroma, flavor, and health benefits that have been enjoyed for centuries.
Not only is it an essential part of Kashmiri culture and cuisine, but it also has medicinal properties and is considered a remedy for various ailments. With the availability of Kashmiri Kahwa Tea bags and leaves, it’s now easier than ever to brew a cup of this delicious tea at home. So, indulge in this cultural and flavorful experience and enjoy the warmth and hospitality of the Kashmiri people in every sip.