Pepper Tea Recipe (Kali Mirch Chai Recipe)
Pepper tea, also known as Kali Mirch Chai, is a refreshing and healthy beverage commonly consumed in Indian households. This soothing drink is perfect for clearing your throat, boosting immunity, and keeping you warm on chilly mornings. Made with just a few simple ingredients, Kali Mirch Chai is known for its spicy yet calming flavor that can be enjoyed at any time of the day.
This recipe combines the warm goodness of freshly ground black pepper, the zesty tang of lemon, and the natural sweetness of honey, with the optional touch of ginger for extra warmth. Whether you’re seeking a morning pick-me-up or a way to unwind after a long day, this tea is sure to hit the spot.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Water | 2-1/2 cups |
| Black pepper (whole) | 1 teaspoon (ground) |
| Honey | 1 teaspoon |
| Lemon juice | 1 teaspoon |
| Ginger (optional) | 1-inch piece, grated |
Preparation Time:
2 minutes
Cooking Time:
5 minutes
Total Time:
7 minutes
Servings:
2 cups
Cuisine:
Indian
Course:
Vegetarian
Diet:
Vegetarian
Instructions:
-
Boil Water: Begin by bringing the water to a boil in a small saucepan. Add the freshly grated ginger (if using) and the ground black pepper. Stir to combine.
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Simmer: Let the mixture simmer on medium heat for about 5 minutes. This will allow the flavors to infuse and the water to reduce slightly to about 2 cups.
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Strain the Tea: After 5 minutes, strain the tea into two serving cups, ensuring that any ginger pieces or peppercorns are removed.
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Add Sweeteners and Lemon: To each cup, add a teaspoon of honey and a teaspoon of fresh lemon juice. Stir well to dissolve the honey and mix all the flavors.
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Serve: Serve the tea hot, and enjoy it when it’s still warm. For a more personalized touch, you can experiment with adding cardamom, mint leaves, or basil leaves for added flavor and fragrance.
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Optional Serving Suggestion: This pepper tea pairs beautifully with a traditional breakfast such as Parsi-style akuri (scrambled eggs) and toast for a wholesome, satisfying meal.
Health Benefits:
- Black Pepper: Known for its ability to stimulate digestion and improve metabolism. It also helps clear up sinus congestion and soothes sore throats.
- Honey: A natural antioxidant that soothes the throat, honey adds a mild sweetness that balances out the spiciness of the pepper.
- Lemon: Packed with vitamin C, lemon juice helps boost immunity and gives the tea a refreshing tang.
- Ginger (Optional): Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, ginger can help in digestion, relieve nausea, and add warmth to the tea.
Serving Tips:
- You can add additional ingredients like cardamom or mint leaves for a refreshing twist to the flavor profile.
- For those who enjoy a little extra kick, a pinch of cayenne pepper or turmeric can be added to this tea for even more health benefits.
- This tea makes a perfect pairing for light, hearty breakfasts like Parsi-style akuri (scrambled eggs) and buttered toast.
Kali Mirch Chai is a delightful drink that combines the medicinal benefits of spices with a delicious, warming flavor. Enjoy this simple yet flavorful beverage to boost your health and elevate your daily routine!
