Sheer Chai

Bring 3 cups of water to a boil in a saucepan. Add green tea leaves and a pinch of baking soda. Boil for 5 minutes until the tea turns dark.

Reduce heat and aerate the tea by ladling it up high and pouring it back repeatedly for 3-4 minutes. This step develops the pink color.

The tea should turn a deep burgundy-red color from the aeration and baking soda reaction. Continue until the color deepens.

Add milk gradually while continuing to stir. The tea will transform into a beautiful pink hue as the milk blends with the dark tea.

Add sugar and crushed cardamom. Simmer gently for 3 more minutes until everything is well blended and the tea is hot.

Strain into cups and serve hot. Optionally garnish with a sprinkle of crushed pistachios or cardamom on top.