India is a country that certainly has a lot to offer, especially in terms of exotic flavours and aromas that enchant like no other, leaving one lost in a blissful spell. Today, tea is less of a beverage and more of a ritual in India. The stories of the beauty that lies in a warm cup of Masala chai or a reviving cup of Darjeeling tea echo in every corner of every home. People here believe in the divine power of tea and the many health benefits that come with it. Regardless of whether one has long hours to spare, or perhaps simply a moment of respite amidst the hustle-bustle, the different types of tea in India are what every tea connoisseur turns to.
Our country is one of the largest tea producers in the world. The fact that 70% of the tea is consumed within India itself vouches for the unconditional love we hold in our hearts for our beloved tea brews. No matter the hour of the day, or the day of the month, a cup of tea is the key to a happy, healthy life for most people who have the luxury of sipping on exotic brews. In the land that is home to a treasure trove of flora and fauna, the varieties of tea in India born from the best of nature make exquisite tea indulgences a regular affair.
1. Kashmiri Kahwa
Kashmiri Kahwa tea is a popular beverage consumed in India, particularly in the northern region of Jammu and Kashmir. It is a traditional tea preparation that has been enjoyed for centuries in the region.
Kashmiri Kahwa is made by steeping green tea leaves with a blend of spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, saffron, and cloves. It is often sweetened with honey or sugar and garnished with chopped almonds or pistachios.
The tea has a delicate, floral aroma and a slightly spicy and nutty flavour. It is typically served hot and is believed to have several health benefits, including improving digestion, reducing stress and anxiety, and boosting immunity.
Kashmiri Kahwa tea is also a popular choice for special occasions and is often served to guests as a welcoming drink. It is an important part of the Kashmiri culture and is widely available in tea shops and restaurants across India.
2. Butter Tea
Butter tea, also known as "po cha" or "gur gur chai," is a traditional beverage consumed in several regions of India, particularly in the northern Himalayan regions such as Ladakh, Sikkim, and Arunachal Pradesh.
In Ladakh, butter tea is a staple beverage and is consumed throughout the day to keep the body warm in the cold climate. It is made by boiling tea leaves with water, adding yak butter (or regular butter), and salt to taste. The mixture is then churned using a special tool called a "churna" until it becomes frothy and creamy. In Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh, the tea is made with milk instead of water.
Butter tea is a high-calorie beverage and is believed to provide energy and warmth to the body, making it a popular drink in the mountainous regions of India where the temperatures can drop drastically. It is also considered a sign of hospitality and is often served to guests in these regions.
3. Noon Chai
Noon chai, also known as Kashmiri chai or pink tea, is a traditional tea beverage that is popular in the Kashmir Valley of India. It is typically consumed during breakfast or in the afternoon, hence the name "noon" which means "salt" in the Kashmiri language.
Noon chai is a unique tea preparation that is characterised by its pink colour and salty taste. It is made by boiling green tea leaves with a special blend of spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves, along with baking soda, salt, and milk. The baking soda helps to give the tea its distinctive pink colour, while the salt adds a savoury flavour to the otherwise sweet tea.
Noon chai is typically served in small cups, along with some salted snacks or sweet pastries. It is considered a symbol of hospitality and is often served to guests as a sign of respect and warmth. While it is most consumed in the Kashmir Valley, noon chai has gained popularity in other parts of India as well, particularly in the northern regions.
4. Irani Chai
Irani chai is a type of tea that originated in Iran and is popular in India, particularly in the city of Hyderabad. It is made by brewing strong black tea with a blend of spices and milk, and it is often served with biscuits or other snacks.
The tradition of drinking Irani chai in India began in the early 20th century, when Iranian merchants and traders settled in the city of Hyderabad and opened tea houses or cafes called Irani cafes. These cafes quickly became popular gathering places for locals, who would come to socialise, discuss business, or simply relax and enjoy a cup of tea.
Today, Irani chai continues to be a beloved beverage in India, and many Irani cafes can still be found in Hyderabad and other cities. The unique blend of spices used in Irani chai gives it a distinct flavour and aroma that sets it apart from other types of tea.
5. Kangra Tea
Kangra tea is a type of tea that is consumed in India, particularly in the Kangra district of the northern state of Himachal Pradesh. It is grown in the foothills of the Himalayas and is known for its unique flavour and aroma.
Kangra tea is made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant, which is grown in the Kangra valley. The tea is typically light and refreshing, with a slightly floral or fruity flavour. It is often consumed without milk or sugar, and is a healthy alternative to other types of tea.
Kangra tea is also becoming increasingly popular outside of India, with many tea enthusiasts around the world seeking out this unique and flavourful variety.
6. Masala Chai
Masala chai is a popular beverage consumed in India, especially in the northern and western regions. It is a spiced tea made by boiling tea leaves with a mixture of aromatic Indian spices, such as cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, cloves, and black pepper, along with milk and sugar.
Masala chai is typically prepared in a special pot called a "kadhai" or "karahi," which is a traditional Indian cooking vessel. The tea leaves and spices are simmered in water in the kadhai, and then milk and sugar are added to create a rich, creamy, and sweet flavour.
Masala chai is often enjoyed in the morning or in the evening as a pick-me-up or as a social beverage to share with friends and family. It is also a common beverage served in many Indian restaurants and street stalls.
7. Assam Tea
Assam tea is a popular type of whole leaf orthodox black tea that is primarily grown in the Assam region of India. It is known for its strong, malty flavour and deep reddish-brown colour.
Assam tea is widely consumed in India and is a staple beverage in many households. It is often served with milk and sugar and is enjoyed both hot and cold. In addition to being consumed in homes, Assam tea is also a popular choice in restaurants, tea shops, and cafes throughout India.
Assam tea is also exported to many other countries around the world, and is a key ingredient in many popular blends such as English Breakfast and Irish Breakfast teas.
Nilgiri tea is a type of black tea that is primarily grown in the Nilgiri hills of southern India. It is one of the most popular teas consumed in India, particularly in the southern states of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka.
Nilgiri tea has a distinctive flavour and aroma that is often described as being brisk, full-bodied, and slightly fruity. It is typically brewed with boiling water and steeped for 2-3 minutes before being served with milk and sugar or honey.
In addition to its delicious taste, Nilgiri tea is also known for its health benefits. It is rich in antioxidants and has been shown to have a positive impact on cardiovascular health, cognitive function, and metabolism.