Sha saw (red tea)
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Strong black tea with sugar and no milk, the everyday drink of the Khasi Hills, served with rice cakes.
Region: MeghalayaOccasion: Morning and evening teaTime: 10 minServes: 4Vegan
Ingredients
- 4 cups water
- 2 tsp black tea leaves
- 3–4 tsp sugar or to taste
- A small piece of ginger, crushed (optional)
Method
- Bring the water to a boil with the ginger, if using.
- Add the tea leaves and sugar and boil for 1–2 minutes until the colour is deep red.
- Strain into cups and serve hot with putharo, pumaloi or pukhlein.
History
Sha means tea and saw means red in Khasi. Tea without milk is common across the hills of the North East.
Significance
Offering a cup of sha saw is the usual way to welcome a guest in a Khasi home.