**Banarasi Tea Recipe (Famous Tea from Varanasi, India)**
Varanasi, also known as Banaras, is famous for its rich culture, ghats, and delicious street food. Among its popular drinks is **Banarasi Tea**, a flavorful and aromatic style of Masala Chai enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. This tea is known for its strong taste, creamy texture, and the perfect blend of spices that give it a unique Banarasi touch. It is commonly served in small clay cups called **kulhads**, which enhance the earthy flavor and make the experience more authentic.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 cups water
* 1 cup milk
* 2 teaspoons black tea leaves
* 2 teaspoons sugar (adjust to taste)
* 1 small piece of ginger (crushed)
* 2–3 green cardamom pods (lightly crushed)
* 1 small cinnamon stick
* 2–3 cloves
* A pinch of fennel seeds (optional)
**Preparation Method:**
Start by heating water in a saucepan on medium flame. Add crushed ginger, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and fennel seeds to the water. Let the mixture boil for about 2–3 minutes so the spices release their aroma and flavor.
Next, add the black tea leaves and allow the tea to simmer for another minute. This step gives the tea its strong and rich color. After that, pour in the milk and add sugar according to your taste. Stir well and let the tea boil for another 2–3 minutes until it becomes slightly thick and creamy.
Once the tea is ready, turn off the heat and strain it into cups using a tea strainer. Traditionally, Banarasi tea is served in clay cups, which add a mild earthy aroma to the drink.
Banarasi tea is not just a beverage; it is a part of the social culture of Varanasi. People often gather at roadside tea stalls to enjoy a hot cup while chatting with friends. Its bold flavor and warming spices make it a perfect drink for any time of the day. ☕
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