Kashaya | Ayurvedic herbal tea

Kashaya is a classic Indian herbal tea with Ayurvedic origins. It simply refers to a blend of spices or herbs which have been infused in water and it is used for treating common colds or coughs. It is generally great to have if you are feeling under the weather!

My version of kashaya is made from a masala consisting of spices such as cumin, ginger, cloves and cinnamon. I like add some peppercorns as well for some extra warmth/heat. To make, you just need to bash the spices in a pestle and mortar and then boil in water until the water is infused with all the delicious flavours. 

Alternatively, you can make kashaya powder/masala in advance. That way when you want to enjoy this drink you simply need to use the spice blend you have prepared instead of crushing the spices every time. I recently made up a batch recently so will post the recipe soon!

If you like other Indian drinks - then do check some of my other recipes out like - 

• Aam panna (refreshing mango drink) 
  
  
• Masala chai 
  
  

Ingredients 
Makes 2 glasses or mugs 

500ml water 
1 tsp cumin seeds 
2 cardamom pods 

2 cloves 
Small piece of cinnamon 

Small piece of fresh ginger finely chopped
Few peppercorns 
Honey to sweeten if desired 

Method 

Time - 15 minutes 

• In a pestle and mortar, lightly crush all the spices apart from the ginger. They don't need to be a fine powder - just bash them enough so that they will release their aroma/flavour.
  
  
• Add the crushed spices to a saucepan along with the ginger and water. 
  
  
• Bring to a boil and then simmer for 5-10 minutes or so until all the spices are infused. 
  
  
• Strain and serve! You can sweeten it with honey or another syrup as well if you like.