Kashmir, the land of dreams, has always been a source of wonder, and the most fascinating of its offerings is Kashmiri Kahwa, a delightful steaming cup of green tea. With the passage of time, this drink, which is fortified with the genuine Kashmiri dry fruits, has become known as the best combination of pleasing flavour and great medicinal properties. Through this complete guide, you will learn the method of preparing real Kashmiri Kahwa with certified dry fruits and realise why this golden liquid is so important that it should be included in your daily mode of living.
Kashmiri Kahwa (Kehwa) is a highly aromatic Green Tea that can be traced back to the 2nd century and is popular throughout the regions of Afghanistan, Pakistan, Central Asia and Northern India, particularly in the Kashmir Valley. "Kahwa" is derived from the Arab word 'Qahwah', meaning 'an aromatic drink'.
With its unique taste coming from spices including Cinnamon and Cardamom, and Saffron, clearly each spice contributes to creating a multi-dimensional taste experience. However, the significant amount of dried fruits, such as Almonds, grown in Kashmir, is what allows for Kahwa to be considered a health drink as well as a beverage.
The originally used method for preparing Kahwa was to boil water in a Samovar (= a brass or copper kettle) containing live coals to keep it warm and create a continual flow of the beverage, although today Kahwa is prepared in modern ways, the essence and original flavour of Kahwa remain the same.
To form the authentic Kashmiri Kahwa, a base of premium Kashmiri dry fruits must be used; the majority of the Kashmiri dry fruits are sun-dried, have been grown without the use of pesticides, and have all been harvested from high mountain orchards, resulting in enhanced taste and better nutritional content than those grown elsewhere.
Kashmiri Almonds (Mamra Badam): Kashmiri Almonds are much smaller than regular almonds and have a much sweeter and more delicate taste. The premium quality of the Almonds from Kashmir is evident, as they are also very rich in vitamin E, healthy fats, and antioxidants, which provide nourishment to the skin and strengthen the hair.
Kashmiri Walnuts (Akhrot): The Kashmiri walnuts are known for their light colour, crispy texture, and bold flavour. They are a very good source of Omega-3 fatty acids and help support cognitive function, as well as aid in reducing inflammation.
Step 1: Prepare the Base. Heat 3 Cups of Water in a Medium-High Heat Pan. As the Water Heats, Soak One Tbsp of Saffron Sticks in warm water and Place aside.
Step 2: Infuse the Spices. When the Water has boiled, Turn Down to Low and add the Saffron, Cinnamon Sticks and cardamom pods. Allow to simmer for 3-4 minutes, allowing the fragrance to dissipate into the water.
Step 3: Add Green Tea. Turn off the heat before adding the Kashmiri Green Tea by pouring one Level tsp of it into the tea base mixture. Stirring slowly will prevent the Kashmiri Green Tea from tasting Bitter.
Step 4: Steep and Strain Tea for 30-40 seconds by covering the pan lid to keep Warm. If Mixed Longer, the Kashmiri Green Tea will become Bitter. Then, strain the Kashmiri Kahwa tea into 2 cups with a Fine Strainer.
Step 5: Garnish with Kashmiri Dry Fruits. Add one teaspoon of slivered Almonds and 1-2 Saffron Sticks to Each Cup. If desired, you can add Chopped Walnuts to improve Health. To sweeten the Kahwa, add Honey.
Step 6: Serve Hot. Serve the Kashmiri Kahwa Hot in a Glass or Clay Mug and let the Aroma awaken your Senses.
Kahwa tea has been used to relieve symptoms associated with a cold and to aid individuals struggling with digestive issues. Saffron, along with other nut types from the Kashmir region, comes packed with vitamin B12, as well as antioxidants, which work together to bolster the immune system.
The green tea used to make Kahwa tea has been proven to cleanse the stomach, improve digestion and increase metabolic rate. Drinking Kahwa tea after a meal is proven to help burn off excess calories and to enhance the overall function of the gut.
Kashmiri Walnuts have been shown to improve cardiovascular health, reduce inflammation and enhance cognitive function. By consuming almonds, individuals will have improved cholesterol levels and reduced blood pressure, which will be beneficial in regard to heart health.
Kahwa tea is the quickest and best natural way to relieve stress. Its unique fragrance and warmth contribute to a soothing connection with your body and have been shown to lower levels of stress and anxiety; it is an ideal beverage to consume when seeking to de-stress.
Kashmiri Kahwa tea has been known to promote metabolism, suppress the appetite and promote fat burning. The combination of green tea along with Kashmiri dry fruits will leave you feeling satisfied and full for longer periods of time.
The vitamin E and good fats found in Kashmiri walnuts and almonds do wonders for your looks. Especially during winter months when your skin appears dry and lifeless, Kahwa tea provides the necessary antioxidants to restore the health of your skin and hair.
Kashmiri walnuts are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which may help with brain health and reduce inflammation. They can enhance memorisation and concentration when eaten regularly.
As many companies are offering mixed or contaminated dry fruits, Kashmiri farmers have established themselves as the best by maintaining the highest standards for all of their products. Kashmiri dry fruits obtained from reputable companies have been sun-dried naturally without chemicals or pesticides.
The flavour and aroma of Kashmiri dry fruits are unlike those of any other origin. The fertility of the soil, along with the environmental conditions, results in sweeter almonds, more flavorful walnuts, and significantly stronger saffron.
Because of the distinct high-altitude growing conditions of Kashmir, dry fruits have developed greater concentrations of essential nutrients in comparison to regular dry fruits.
Kahwa is a traditional beverage in Kashmiri Culture. It represents the hospitality and warmth that families share when they come together to drink Kahwa. This is especially true during winter, as it creates an opportunity for family members to bond and be comforted by each other. In addition, Kahwa is consumed by many Kashmiris after breakfast, and it is usually offered to guests as a sign of hospitality.
The way Kahwa has been traditionally prepared and served is part of the Kashmiris' culture. Rituals associated with its preparation and serving have been passed down through generations. Kahwa is very much tied to the agricultural history of the Valley of Kashmir, where fertile soil and skilled farmers have cultivated the land for thousands of years.
When sourcing the best quality ingredients for Kahwa, it is important to use authentic Kashmiri Dry Fruits purchased from trusted dealers. The ideal dealer will have a direct sourcing relationship with Kashmir, provide certification of their products as organic/pesticide-free, use the traditional method of sun-drying the products, and be aware of their impact on the environment.
Quality Kashmiri Dry Fruits will be priced higher than standard Dry Fruits; however, this is offset by the great taste, aroma, and nutritional benefits they bring to the table. Websites like Almukhlis.in sell high-quality Dry Fruits suitable for making Kahwa.
The craft of preparing Kashmiri Kahwa using high-quality dried fruits reflects a blend of authentic Kashmiri heritage, healthy benefits, and a delightful experience. This drink not only provides an opportunity to eliminate stress, but it will also be a source of comfort, nurturing, and energy. You can drink this splendid beverage when you feel chilly during the winter, if you want to boost your immunity naturally and if you want to taste the deliciousness of Kashmiri produce. By drinking Kahwa made with authentic dried fruits, you can enjoy all of the above!
