Blog, Kashmiri Culture
How To Make Authentic Kashmiri Kahwa At Home
May
British-Kashmiri blogger Sumaya Teli shares how her husband surprised her with his knowledge of making traditional Kashmiri kahwa. Fragrant with saffron, cinnamon and cardamom, this comforting drink is perfect for Ramadan, Eid, family gatherings and quiet evenings at home.
The first time my husband and I hosted a dinner party as a newly married couple, he surprised everyone—including me.
He casually declared, “I’ll make some kahwa. Would everyone like to try it?”
I soon discovered that Kashmiri kahwa was one of his specialities. Its distinctive flavour and aroma made it particularly interesting for guests who had never tasted it before. In fact, it quickly became the subject of our after-dinner conversation.
From the traditional samovar to the delicate strands of Kashmiri saffron , this drink evokes the beauty, warmth and hospitality of Kashmir.
Many people may be familiar with Kashmiri pink tea, traditionally prepared as a savoury and slightly salty beverage. However, fewer people have had the opportunity to taste authentic Kashmiri kahwa.
Since that first dinner party, we have continued serving kahwa to our guests after dinner. We usually serve it on its own, and almost everyone who tastes it responds with generous compliments.
Here is how you can prepare your own Kashur kahwa at home. I recommend enjoying it in good company!
Kashur Kahwa Recipe
A traditional Kashmiri saffron, cinnamon and cardamom drink
Ingredients
- 3 mugs of water, divided into two portions
- A small piece of cinnamon bark—do not use powdered cinnamon
- 2–3 whole green cardamom pods, lightly crushed
- A generous pinch of Kashmiri saffron
- Sugar or honey, according to taste
- Optional: a small pinch of green tea
This is not the kind of recipe that requires perfectly measured teaspoons and tablespoons. The quantities above are approximate and should make enough kahwa for two to three people.
After preparing it a few times, you will naturally begin adjusting the ingredients according to your taste. Remember, however, that saffron is always measured in pinches.
This is more than a recipe for a sweet, warming drink. It is also one of the most beautiful natural home fragrances you can create in just a few minutes.
Method
- Pour one and a half mugs of water into a saucepan. Add the cinnamon bark and lightly crushed cardamom pods.
- As the water approaches boiling point, add the saffron and sugar. Allow the mixture to boil for three to four minutes. The water will reduce slightly, and you should begin to see the rich golden colour of the saffron developing.
- Add another one and a half mugs of water and bring the mixture back to a boil.
- Taste and adjust the sweetness. Traditional kahwa is usually served fairly sweet, although you can replace sugar with honey.
- Let it simmer gently for another few minutes. Strain the kahwa into cups and serve warm.
It is a wonderfully simple recipe, but the flavour, colour and fragrance are beautiful.
Does Kashmiri Kahwa Contain Caffeine?
This saffron-and-spice version of kahwa contains no caffeine, provided you do not add green tea. Despite being caffeine-free, the combination of saffron, cinnamon and cardamom is pleasantly refreshing and can be enjoyed in the evening without interfering with sleep.
Children may also enjoy it, but always allow the drink to cool to a safe temperature before serving it to them.
Optional Green Tea Variation
Some families in Kashmir add a small pinch of green tea while preparing kahwa. This creates a slightly stronger flavour and adds caffeine to the drink.
Try the saffron, cinnamon and cardamom version first. You can then experiment with a little green tea to discover which preparation you prefer.
Make Authentic Kashmiri Kahwa at Home
Prefer preparing kahwa from scratch? Shop pure Kashmiri saffron and use it with cinnamon, cardamom and your preferred sweetener.
For a quicker and more convenient option, try the Kashmiri Kehwa/Kahwa Mix from Gyawun. Simply brew and enjoy the traditional taste and aroma of Kashmiri kahwa at home.
