Shahi Qawah
Kahwah (also spelled qehwa, kehwa or kahwa) is a traditional green tea
recipe that originates from the Kashmir Valley.
Preparation
The tea is made by boiling green tea leaves with saffron strands,
cinnamon bark and cardamom pods & occasionally Kashmiri roses to add
a great aroma. 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. Traditionally, Kahwah or
Kehwa is 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 tealeaves and
other ingredients are mixed with the water for a perfect blend. Kehwa
may also be made in normal pans and vessels, as modern day urban living
may not always permit the use of elaborate samovars (or samavars, as
they are popularly called in Kashmir) Kahwah is usually served to guests
or as part of a celebration dinner, and Saffron (Kong) is added to the
Kehwa for special visitors. It is often served in tiny, shallow cups.
Kehwa in Kashmir is also commonly served after Wazwan and elaborate
family dinners. Sometimes milk is added to the kahwa, but this is
generally given to the elderly or the sick.