Kahwah

Kahwah is a traditional green tea preparation consumed in Afghanistan, northern Pakistan, some regions of Central Asia as well as the Kashmir Valley. In Pakistan, it is made in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan and north Punjab regions. It is a popular post-dinner beverage among Kashmiris, who usually serve it to guests. It is usually served with sugar, honey, and crushed nuts, usually almonds or walnuts. There is another form of tea known as noon chai (salt tea) that is pink in color and is also a popular drink in Kashmir.

Etymology

The word "Kahwah" originated from the Arabic word 'qahwa', which means 'an invigorating drink'. It is also related to the Turkish word 'kahve' which means 'coffee'.

Preparation

Kahwah is traditionally prepared in a brass kettle known as a samovar. A samovar consists of a "fire-container" running as a central cavity, in which live coals are placed keeping the tea perpetually hot. Around the fire-container there is a space for water to boil and the tea leaves and other ingredients are mixed with the water. Kahwah may also be made in normal pans and vessels, as modern day urban living may not always permit the use of elaborate samovars.

Kahwah is usually served to guests or as part of a celebration dinner, and saffron (kong) is added to the kahwah for special visitors. It is often served in tiny, shallow cups.

Ingredients

Kahwah tea leaves are usually a form of green tea, with saffron strands, cinnamon bark and cardamom pods mixed in. Generally, it is served with sugar or honey, and crushed nuts - usually almonds or walnuts. Some varieties are made as a herbal infusion only, without the green tea leaves.

Health Benefits

Like all green teas, kahwah is known to have many health benefits. It is known to improve heart health, reduce blood pressure, aid in weight loss, and improve digestion. It is also known to have a calming effect on the mind, making it a popular choice for relaxation and meditation.

See Also

• Green tea
• Samovar
• Saffron
• Cinnamon
• Cardamom
• Almonds
• Walnuts

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