Kehwa, A Herbal Tea is a fragrant, spiced green tea that is perfect for chilly winter days. Originating from the beautiful valleys of Kashmir, this drink is a warm embrace in a cup, infused with the goodness of saffron, spices, and almonds. Kehwa is not just a drink—it’s an experience that soothes the body, calms the mind, and invigorates the soul. Let’s bring a slice of Kashmir into your home with this simple yet luxurious recipe.
Ingredients:
- Green Tea Leaves: 1 tsp (prefer Kashmiri green tea)
- Saffron Strands: A pinch
- Cinnamon Stick: 1 small
- Cardamom Pods: 2, crushed
- Sugar or Honey: To taste
- Almonds: 5–6, slivered
- Water: 2 cups
- Lemon (optional)
- Rose Petals (Optional): For garnish
Nature – warm
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 minutes | 10 minutes | 15 minutes | 2 servings |
Instructions:
- Boil the water: Heat 2 cups of water in a saucepan. Add the green tea leaves, cinnamon stick, crushed cardamom. Let the water simmer for 3–4 minutes to extract the flavors of the spices. when the water will reduce to half in quantity then add saffron strands
2. Add green tea leaves: Reduce the heat to low and add the green tea leaves. Let it steep for 1–2 minutes. Avoid over-steeping to prevent bitterness.
3. Sweeten the kehwa: Add sugar or honey as per your taste and stir well until dissolved.
4. Strain the tea: Strain the kehwa into cups to remove the spices and tea leaves.
5. Garnish: Top with slivered almonds and a few dried rose petals for an authentic Kashmiri touch. If you are using lemon then squeez it in the kehwa.
6. Serve warm: Enjoy your aromatic cup of kehwa, sipping slowly to savor its warmth and flavor.
Tips for Perfect Kehwa:
- Use high-quality green tea leaves (prefer to use Kashmiri green tea leaves, it is available online) and fresh spices for the best flavor.
- Adjust the sweetness and spices to suit your taste preferences.
- For a richer taste, you can add a small piece of dried apricot or crushed walnuts.
- Serve in a transparent cup to showcase the golden color of the tea.
Conclusion
Kashmiri Kehwa is more than just a winter drink; it’s a tradition passed down through generations in the valleys of Kashmir. This warm, spiced tea is a perfect companion for cold evenings or when you want to add a touch of elegance to your tea time. Try this recipe, and let the aromas of saffron and spices fill your home with warmth and comfort!
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