Your information will be kept 
If you’ve ever stepped into a Japanese café and caught the warm, nutty scent of roasted tea in the air, you’ve already experienced the essence of Hojicha.
Unlike traditional green teas such as Matcha or Sencha, Hojicha is roasted, not steamed, giving it a rich amber colour, a toasty fragrance, and a naturally low level of caffeine. It’s a cup of calm, smooth, earthy, and deeply comforting.
A Brief History of Hojicha
Hojicha (ほうじ茶) was born in Kyoto during the 1920s. At the time, tea merchants discovered that by roasting leftover green tea leaves and stems over charcoal, they could create a unique new flavour. The process produced an inviting aroma and mellow taste that quickly became a daily favourite across Japan.
Today, Hojicha remains beloved as a gentle, grounding tea enjoyed by people of all ages , often served after meals or in the evenings as a relaxing ritual.
How It’s Made
Unlike Matcha, which is shade grown and stone ground into a fine powder, Hojicha begins as regular green tea leaves, usually Sencha or Bancha, that are carefully roasted at high temperatures. This roasting:
- Reduces bitterness and caffeine
- Enhances natural sweetness
- Brings out warm notes of caramel, roasted nuts, and cocoa
The result is a cup of tea that’s smooth and aromatic, perfect for anyone who finds standard green tea too grassy or astringent.
Why People Love Hojicha
Part of Hojicha’s charm lies in its versatility. It’s enjoyed in so many ways:
-
Hojicha Latte: A cosy favourite. The roasted tea flavour blends beautifully with milk, creating a creamy, toasty drink that’s naturally low in caffeine, perfect for late afternoons or evenings.
- Desserts and Treats: From ice cream to cakes and puddings, Hojicha adds a delicate roasted depth that balances sweetness perfectly.
- Wellness Rituals: Many tea lovers enjoy Hojicha after meals or before bed, as it’s gentle on the stomach and helps promote relaxation.
Health Benefits Of Hojicha
- Antioxidant-Rich: Hojicha powder is packed with antioxidants, helping to combat free radicals in the body and promote overall health.
- Gentle Energy Boost: Unlike coffee, Hojicha provides a gentle energy lift without the jitters, thanks to its lower caffeine content.
- Digestive Support: The soothing properties of Hojicha make it a popular choice for promoting healthy digestion and gut function.
- Calming Effects: Enjoy a moment of tranquility with Hojicha's naturally calming aroma, perfect for relaxation and stress relief.
Hojicha or Matcha, Which One Is for You?
Both teas come from the same plant, Camellia sinensis, yet their personalities couldn’t be more different. Matcha is vibrant, grassy, and energising, ideal for focus and mornings. Hojicha, on the other hand, is soothing, nutty, and grounding, the perfect tea for winding down at night.
Think of Matcha as your morning motivation, and Hojicha as your evening exhale.
How to Brew the Perfect Cup
Brewing Hojicha is wonderfully simple:
- Heat your water to around 90°C (just below boiling).
- Add 1 teaspoon of Hojicha to 200 ml of water.
- Steep for 30 - 60 seconds depending on how strong you like it.
- Pour, relax, and enjoy its warm, toasted aroma.
For a Hojicha Latte:
- Whisk 1 teaspoon of Hello Matcha Hojicha Powder with a small splash of hot water until smooth.
- Add steamed milk (dairy or plant-based) and a touch of honey or sugar to taste. The result is a velvety, smoky sweet drink that feels like a hug in a cup.
Discover Hojicha with Hello Matcha
At Hello Matcha, we’re passionate about authentic Japanese teas that nourish both body and mind. Our Hojicha Powder is roasted to perfection for a naturally sweet, balanced flavour ideal for making barista style lattes or desserts at home.
Whether you’re new to roasted tea or looking for your next daily ritual, Hojicha offers the perfect moment of calm in every cup.
Explore our Hojicha collection at hello-matcha.com.au
