Unconventional Brewing Method
Yaman Agarwal, the culinary creative behind CookingShooking, has garnered attention for his innovative approach to cooking, including the use of a pressure
cooker for making chai. He demonstrated a departure from traditional methods by skipping the pre-boiling step, instead of placing all ingredients simultaneously into the cooker. The process involved adding water, ginger, tea leaves, sugar, and milk all at once. The chef instructed viewers to restrict the cooking time to just two whistles, and to wait for the pressure to release safely before opening the lid. Once ready, the tea was poured into two cups. This method, shared via Instagram, has been viewed by over 3.9 million people, showcasing the widespread interest and curiosity surrounding the pressure cooker chai.
Recipe's Detailed Steps
The recipe, as demonstrated by the chef, begins with adding the necessary ingredients into the pressure cooker without the preliminary boiling phase typically associated with chai preparation. A specific order or method wasn't described, but the ingredients were all introduced into the cooker at once. The chef's instructions emphasized cooking the tea for no more than two whistles, indicating that overcooking could compromise the flavor. He also stressed the importance of allowing the steam to escape completely and the cooker to cool down before opening it to avoid potential hazards. After the tea has been brewed, it is then poured into two cups for serving, ready to enjoy.
Internet's Mixed Reactions
The online community reacted to the pressure cooker chai with a mix of amusement and skepticism. Many viewers found the method to be amusing and expressed their surprise at this unorthodox technique. Several comments reflected this sentiment, with some jokingly inquiring about the possibility of using other kitchen appliances for tea making. Others playfully joked about making biryani in the same utensil, while some expressed a desire to try the recipe but also mentioned the need for someone else to take responsibility for cleaning up. However, there were also warnings. Some online users expressed concerns, citing potential dangers associated with this cooking method, and cautioning against possible malfunctions or explosions due to clogged vents and excess steam pressure.
Safety Concerns Raised
While the method went viral, the safety aspects of pressure cooker chai did draw significant attention. Individuals expressed concerns regarding potential hazards, highlighting the risk of tea leaves and small particles blocking the pressure cooker's vent or safety valve. Such blockages could prevent the escape of steam, increasing internal pressure and potentially leading to the cooker's malfunction or even an explosion. Safety considerations are crucial when using pressure cookers, and users were advised to ensure proper maintenance and adhere to safety guidelines. This underscored the importance of understanding the equipment and following the suggested cooking methods to prevent accidents, which would be even more important when doing something out of the ordinary, such as brewing chai.
