India’s love for tea transcends geographical and cultural boundaries. Every state has its own interpretation of this much-loved beverage, infused with local spices and flavours that reflect the region’s distinct culinary identity. The state’s culinary tradition also becomes apparent in the local chai.
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So, if you are bored with your usual cup of chai, why not explore the diverse tea recipes? Executive chef Diwas Wadhera of Eros Hotel, New Delhi, shared with us four regional tea recipes with HT Lifestyle that you can easily recreate at home. He also explained the story behind each.
Some teas are zesty, some floral, and others gently sweet, while many are enjoyed without milk. However, they all mirror the culinary landscape of their respective regions.
The chef described the flavour profile. This tea has a gentle sweetness with a hint of floral aroma, reflecting this region’s light and wholesome cuisine.
“Kangra Tea comes from the beautiful Kangra Valley in Himachal Pradesh. It has a light, fresh taste with a gentle floral aroma. People usually enjoy it without milk, so they can experience its natural flavour,” he said.
Diwas also noted that this tea contains no strong, overpowering spices.
Here’s the recipe:
Kolkata is famous for its street food, but the chef reminded us that its tea is also a standout in its own right. This brew is perfect for those who enjoy intense, tangy, zesty flavours.
He added, “The tea is a true reflection of West Bengal’s vibrant and flavour-forward food culture. Combining black tea with fresh lemon, black salt, and aromatic spices, it strikes a perfect balance between tangy, savoury, and refreshing.”
We asked the chef what pairs well with this tea. Diwas shared that it is best enjoyed with hot pakoras or jhal muri during the monsoon.
Kashmir Kahwa is well-known. The chef highlighted that it is widely loved for its aroma.
“Kahwa is made without milk and is flavoured with cardamom, cinnamon, saffron, and almonds. Prepared with green tea infused with cinnamon, cardamom, saffron, and almonds, it offers warmth and depth in every sip,” he mentioned the ingredients. “Beyond its flavour, Kahwa reflects the region’s tradition of hospitality, transforming a simple cup of tea into a comforting and elegant experience.”
The Nilgiri region in South India has its own distinctive tea as well. Grown in Tamil Nadu’s Nilgiri Hills, this tea makes a smooth, refreshing brew.
Elaborating more on the preparation and back story of this tea, the chef shared, “This tea has a pleasant floral aroma. It can be enjoyed either as black tea or with milk. The tea reflects the freshness and diversity that define Tamil Nadu’s culinary landscape. Its bright aroma, brisk flavour, and smooth finish make it both refreshing and versatile, pairing effortlessly with the state’s bold, spice-rich cuisine.”
Here’s the recipe:
