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Pakistani Chai

Written by: Georgina Ingham | Posted: 06-10-2020

Pakistani Chai: Kadak & Kashmiri Recipes | Culinary Travels

This is a Guest Post written by Anum Nawaz, Instagram Influencer at Pen a Thought and all-round Pakistani food enthusiast.

Chai is a warm beverage mainly found in Pakistan and India. Consisting of water, loose tea, spices, milk, and sugar, it sparks conversations, keeps you warm, and finishes wedding celebrations.

Pakistani Chai is something which brings family, friends and even strangers together. It’s so much more than a drink it’s a staple of every breakfast, conversation and catch up. Its presence may never be valued as much as it should be but its absence is always felt. So why not try something new and see where your taste buds will take you.

History of Chai

Its origins trace back to India under British colonisation. The British tea concept was adapted by adding spices and milk, creating Chai, later carried to Pakistan.

A beautiful vista in Pakistan. Imagine sitting there and sipping chai, just relaxing and letting the time go by = blissful

After the partition of India and Pakistan in 1947, many delicacies were adapted uniquely by each country. Chai is a shared beverage with many varieties, connecting Indians and Pakistanis worldwide.

The Importance of Chai

During my recent trip to Pakistan, Chai was everywhere: chai stalls, restaurants, coffee shops, and homes. It accompanies conversations, debates, and snacks alike.

Served in small glasses from dawn until way past dusk, this chai is everywhere you look in Pakistan. It’s in little make-shift cafes, sold from chai-wallahs at every bus station, train station and street corner, and of course, it is brewing in every home.

Types of Chai

Two main types: Kadak Chai and Kashmiri Chai.

Kadak Chai

A sweet mix of tea, cinnamon, cardamom, milk, sugar, and salt, simmered to creamy perfection. Pair with spicy Samosa or Paratha, or sweet treats like cake, cookies, or Jalebi.

Kashmiri Chai

Infused with star anise and a hint of red colouring, giving a pink hue. Topped with crushed pistachios and almonds, traditionally served at weddings.

Pink Kashmiri Chai is traditionally served at weddings. Isn't it pretty? So easy to make at home too

Pakistani Kadak Chai Recipe

Ingredients

3 teaspoons black tea leaves or 2 tea bags
7 teaspoons sugar
1 cinnamon stick
7 green cardamom pods, bruised
A pinch of salt
500ml whole milk
500ml water

Instructions

Bring the water to the boil in a medium-sized pan.
Add the tea leaves or tea bags and boil for a minute, then add cinnamon and cardamom pods. Reduce heat and simmer 5 minutes.
Pour in milk and return to boil, then simmer 2 minutes.
Remove from heat and stir in salt and sugar.
Strain through a fine sieve into cups and serve.

Notes

Adjust sugar and spices to taste. Keep experimenting until you find your perfect blend.

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Beautiful art works in Pakistan