A shikara trip on the tranquil waters of Dal Lake is incomplete with out a steaming cup of kawha retaining you firm. Crushed dry fruits and hints of honey and saffron peeking by means of make for a scrumptious deal with to the senses and tastebuds alike. For our collection Bites of Historical past, the place we discover the cultural and historic legacy of India’s wealthy culinary choices, we dive into Kashmir’s iconic beverage of selection.
Celeb chef Ananya Banerjee tells us that kahwa is a standard Kashmiri inexperienced tea infused with fragrant spices like saffron, cardamom, cinnamon, and garnished with almonds and infrequently rose petals. “It’s a image of heat, hospitality, and celebration in Kashmiri tradition,” she stated.
A peek into its cultural legacy
Banerjee provides kahwa is believed to have Persian and Central Asian roots, launched to Kashmir by way of the Silk Route. “The phrase ‘Qahwa’ is Arabic for espresso, however within the Kashmiri context, it refers to this inexperienced tea,” she stated. Historically made in a samovar (a metallic urn), kahwa grew to become a part of royal and on a regular basis life alike.
Culturally, kahwa is obtainable to friends as a gesture of welcome. It’s particularly widespread in chilly seasons for its warming and digestive properties. “Served together with Wazwan, the frilly Kashmiri wedding ceremony feast, Kawha finds its place usually earlier than or after the meal, owing to its digestive and soothing properties,” she stated.
How are you going to make Kawha?
Making Kashmiri Kahwa is a time-honoured ritual that varies from household to household. The genuine preparation requires the samovar, which is used to brew the tea over an open flame. This conventional technique offers kahwa its signature smoky flavour.
Chef Banerjee takes us by means of the preparation course of in six easy steps:
– Boil water with crushed cardamom pods and a cinnamon stick.
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– Add a pinch of saffron for its aroma and golden hue.
– Decrease the warmth and add Kashmiri inexperienced tea leaves.
– Let it steep (don’t overboil) and pressure.
– Pour into cups over slivered almonds.
– Sweeten with honey or sugar if desired.
As soon as the tea has brewed, it’s garnished with crushed nuts, saffron strands, rose petals and a sprinkle of cardamom. to raise the flavour and improve its visible attraction, making it a feast for each the eyes and the style buds.
Kawha is brewed in a standard samovar (Supply: Wikimedia Commons)
Well being advantages
Banerjee additionally shares some well being advantages you may reap by ingesting this tea each day.
Wealthy in Antioxidants: The inexperienced tea base is loaded with antioxidants that fight oxidative stress and enhance total well being.
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Boosts Metabolism: The important spices utilized in kahwa, like cinnamon and cardamom, can promote metabolic well being, aiding in weight administration.
Improves Digestion: One of many standout elements—cardamom—is understood for its digestive advantages, selling intestine well being as you savour your cup.
Reduces Stress: The soothing aroma and heat nature of kahwa make it a wonderful drink for leisure and stress discount.
In accordance with her, kahwa is commonly paired with conventional Kashmiri dishes like Rogan Josh, Gushtaba, and Tabak Maaz. The mix enhances the wealthy and daring flavors of Kashmiri delicacies, making it a whole culinary expertise. “Whereas there are a number of variations of Kahwa throughout Central and South Asia, Kashmiri Kahwa stands out for its delicate use of saffron and almonds, reflecting the area’s wealthy agricultural and culinary heritage,” she tells indianexpress.com.
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In an period the place sustainability is paramount, supporting native Kashmiri tea farmers and companies can be certain that the gorgeous custom of kahwa continues for generations to come back.