Monsoon and chai go hand-in-hand, and with heavy downpours exterior, our longing for a sizzling cup of chai is stronger than ever earlier than. Brewed to perfection, tea comforts us from inside and helps us benefit from the rhythmic rainfall much more. But in case you discover, you will see folks having their distinctive preferences with regards to tea. While some just like the kadak masala chai, others get pleasure from first-flush tea with out milk or sugar. Then there are selections as per area and state – in Hyderabad, folks go gaga over Irani chai, whereas Kashmiris get pleasure from their kahwa all year long. Amidst such variety, we’ve usually seen folks getting confused between kahwa and masala tea, particularly those made with out milk.
While we agree that the usage of widespread masalas can go away you confused, in case you observe intently, there are hanging variations between the 2. Today, we are going to take you thru a couple of of those variations, placing an finish to your confusion as soon as and for all. But earlier than that, let’s discover out the fundamental similarities between the 2 drinks.
Also Read: Don’t Make These 5 Mistakes While Sipping Chai During Monsoon

_{Picture Credit: iStock}

What Are the Similarities Between Kashmiri Kahwa and Masala Tea?

Kahwa finds its roots in Kashmir, whereas masala tea is a extremely popular drink in varied components of India. If you attempt each drinks collectively, you’ll discover two main similarities – by way of spices and well being advantages.

Similarity 1: Spices

Both kahwa and masala tea have a robust utilization of cinnamon and cardamom. In each recipes, these spices add a wealthy aroma and a candy style to the teas.

Similarity 2: Health Benefits

Both drinks are thought-about nice for well being, due to the usage of wholesome spices within the recipes. They assist enhance immunity, maintain you heat, and forestall a number of seasonal infections. Besides, these sizzling drinks are loaded with antioxidants that assist keep a wholesome intestine and permit your physique to perform easily.
Also Read: How To Make Kashmiri Kahwa Tea For Good Immunity And Weight Loss

_{Photo Credit: iStock}

Kashmiri Kahwa Vs. Masala Tea: Know the Difference:

1. Use of Tea Leaves:

While masala tea is normally constructed from tea powder or CTC tea, kahwa contains inexperienced tea for a crystal-clear color. This makes the latter a bit lighter and more healthy in nature.

2. Brewing Process:

Masala tea is ready utilizing two processes. You both brew entire masalas in water after which add tea leaves to it, or put together the tea and add powdered masala to it. On the opposite hand, kahwa (or kehwa) is historically ready in a samovar – a novel brass utensil that consists of a “fire container” operating as a central cavity. This helps the tea keep perpetually sizzling.

3. Ingredients:

While cinnamon and cardamom stay the identical, each teas use varied different components that make them very totally different from one another. While a tea masala is normally ready with cinnamon, cardamom, bay leaf, cloves, nutmeg, ginger, and so on., kahwa has a robust use of saffron, almonds, and rose petals, apart from the same old cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves.

4. Taste:

Due to the usage of CTC tea, masala chai is stronger than its fancy counterparts. Whereas kahwa is mild, fragrant, and helps you heat up immediately, courtesy of the usage of inexperienced tea.
Now that you’re conscious of the fundamental variations between the teas, how about making a cup for your self and having fun with the season? Here are the masala tea and kahwa recipes for you.