Kesar Chai Recipe – A Delicious Saffron-Flavored Indian Tea
Introduction:
Kesar Chai, a delightful North Indian tea, is a fragrant, saffron-infused beverage that brings an exotic touch to your daily cup of tea. This tea is not only famous for its golden hue but also for the subtle, sweet taste of saffron, a luxurious spice known for its rich flavor and numerous health benefits. If you’re looking for a simple way to elevate your tea-drinking experience, Kesar Chai is a perfect option. This recipe is quick to prepare and makes for a perfect pairing with savory Indian snacks like samosas or pakoras.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Water | 2 cups |
| Tea leaves | 1 teaspoon |
| Milk | 1/4 cup |
| Saffron strands | 10 strands (or more) |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 45 kcal |
| Protein | 1.2 g |
| Carbohydrates | 4 g |
| Fat | 2.3 g |
| Calcium | 60 mg |
| Sodium | 28 mg |
Instructions:
-
Boil the Water & Saffron:
Begin by pouring 2 cups of water into a medium-sized saucepan. Add the saffron strands to the water and bring it to a brisk boil over medium heat. The saffron will infuse the water, giving it a beautiful yellowish-orange hue. -
Add the Tea Leaves:
Once the water begins to boil, add 1 teaspoon of tea leaves to the saucepan. Allow the tea to simmer gently for about 1 minute, ensuring that the tea leaves release their flavors without over-brewing, which can make the tea taste bitter. -
Turn off the Heat & Brew:
After the tea leaves have simmered, turn off the heat. Let the tea brew for just a little longer (about 30 seconds) to get the optimal flavor. Remember not to let the tea over-steep, as this will overpower the delicate saffron aroma. -
Add Milk:
Pour 1/4 cup of milk into the tea mixture and stir well. Allow the chai to rest for a few seconds, giving the saffron and tea a chance to blend harmoniously with the milk. -
Strain & Serve:
Using a fine mesh strainer, strain the Kesar Chai into cups. To enhance the presentation and flavor, you can sprinkle a few extra saffron strands on top before serving. -
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the Kesar Chai with a side of classic Indian snacks like samosas, vegetable bajji, or pakoras for a truly comforting tea-time experience.
Tips for the Perfect Kesar Chai:
- Use Fresh Saffron: For the best results, opt for fresh saffron strands. Even a small amount of high-quality saffron can bring a depth of flavor and vibrant color to the tea.
- Control the Brew Time: Ensure that the tea leaves do not simmer for too long, as this can result in a bitter taste. A brief brewing of around one minute is all you need to extract the essence of the tea leaves without overpowering the saffron’s delicate taste.
- Adjust Sweetness: Although this recipe does not include sugar, you can always add sweeteners like honey or sugar according to your taste preferences.
Conclusion:
Kesar Chai is an elegant and flavorful variation of regular tea, perfect for special occasions or simply indulging in something a little more luxurious. The combination of saffron and tea creates a soothing, aromatic beverage that is both relaxing and rejuvenating. Whether you serve it with spicy Indian snacks or enjoy it on its own, Kesar Chai is sure to become one of your go-to beverages for any time of the day.
Give this recipe a try and take your tea experience to the next level!
