Shakeel Bin Abdul Ali
In a recent display of Indian hospitality, President Droupadi Murmu extended a warm gesture to G20 leaders during a dinner in New Delhi, serving them Kashmiri Kahwa, a traditional green tea. This act not only showcased India’s rich culture but also introduced distinguished guests to the timeless allure of Kashmiri Kahwa, a beverage steeped in history.
Arabic Roots and Kashmiri Culinary Gem
The name “Kahwa,” sometimes spelled “Kehwa” or “Kahwah,” traces its origins to the Arabic word “qahwah,” meaning “coffee.” However, Kashmiri Kahwa is a world apart from coffee. This captivating brew combines green tea leaves with saffron, cinnamon, cardamom, and sometimes the gentle touch of Kashmiri roses. It is typically served with a choice of sugar or honey and a sprinkle of crushed nuts, often almonds or walnuts.
In the Kashmir Valley, this aromatic delight takes center stage at weddings, parties, and special occasions. It’s also a cherished companion on chilly winter days, providing comfort and warmth to both locals and visitors. Beyond its exquisite flavor, Kashmiri Kahwa offers a plethora of health benefits, including strengthening the immune system, alleviating stress and anxiety, enhancing digestion, soothing a sore throat, reducing inflammation, and promoting heart health. This brew is a delightful and nutritious beverage suitable for individuals of all ages.
A Glimpse into Tradition
The traditional preparation of Kashmiri Kahwa involves using a samovar, a charming copper kettle that heats water and brews tea in an age-old fashion. Additionally, it can be made with either loose-leaf green tea or tea bags, with the saffron quantity adjusted to match personal flavor preferences. Kashmiri Kahwa is versatile and equally enjoyable whether served piping hot or refreshingly cold.
The history of Kashmiri Kahwa is as rich and diverse as its flavor profile. Originating in Central Asia’s Yarkand valley during the first and second centuries AD, it found its way to Kashmir through the Kushan empire’s rule from the 1st to the 4th centuries AD. During the Mughal period (16th-18th centuries), Kashmiri Kahwa gained prominence as Mughal emperors fused their love for tea with the region’s traditional recipes, introducing new spices and flavors that enhanced its allure.
Today, Kashmiri Kahwa remains an integral part of Kashmiri culture, symbolizing hospitality, warmth, and tradition. It’s more than just a refreshment; it’s considered a remedy for colds, coughs, and stomach ailments.
If you’re eager to experience the magic of Kashmiri Kahwa, you can find it along the Srinagar-Jammu Expressway near Letpora Pampore, served in all its traditional glory. Gather your family and friends and enjoy this delightful journey through time and taste, sipping history one cup at a time.
In conclusion, Kashmiri Kahwa is not merely a beverage; it’s a testament to the rich tapestry of history, culture, and culinary artistry that defines the Kashmir Valley. With its origins in ancient Central Asia and its evolution through centuries of Mughal influence, this brew has become a symbol of hospitality and tradition in Kashmir. Its aromatic blend of green tea, saffron, and spices not only delights the taste buds but also offers numerous health benefits. So, whether you’re seeking warmth on a chilly winter day or a taste of history, sip on a cup of Kashmiri Kahwa, and let its timeless allure transport you to a world of tradition and flavour.
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