Roasted in porcelain pot over charcoal, houjicha, hojicha (ほうじ茶) is made from green tea leaves and stems that have been steamed (shiraore). Houjicha is still green tea despite its chestnut color that will remind you of black tea. The fermentation process has been stopped, so you benefit from the full power of green tea antioxidants. Super easy to prepare, you simply pour boiling water over it and let it brew for 30 seconds.

The roasting process lowers the caffeine contents of the tea, and so houjicha has next to no bitterness and it can be enjoyed anytime during the day by everyone. Very affordable yet delicious, houjicha is loved by families and tea farmers throughout Japan, especially during meals.

Genmaicha (lit. “Brown rice tea) is a very affordable green tea delicacy that is becoming increasingly popular among tea lovers around the world. Combining roasted brown rice (unpolished rice kernels) and sencha leaves, it is a warm and comforting tea that can be enjoyed anytime during the day thanks to its low caffeine levels.

A mild, sweet and nutty flavor is distinctive of authentic genmaicha and makes it unforgettable. Contrary to other kinds of green tea, you can use boiling water to steep genmaicha, making it one of the easiest green tea to prepare. Of course, it can be enjoyed straight, but feel free to add honey or lemon to taste.