As the morning and evening breezes turn cool, the aromatic scent of hojicha becomes irresistible. Hojicha, made by roasting Japanese green tea, is low in caffeine and offers a soothing, relaxing experience. Its unpretentious flavor pairs perfectly with daily meals. In this article, we'll introduce you to the art of brewing delicious hojicha. Whether you're taking a moment to unwind during your day or sharing tea time with loved ones, savor the gentle flavor and aroma of hojicha rising from the steaming cup.
Key Points for Brewing Delicious Hojicha
To enjoy hojicha at its best, focus on three key factors: water temperature, tea leaf quantity, and steeping time. The characteristic roasted aroma of hojicha is best brought out with hot water. Therefore, use water that has just come to a boil. Caffeine, which can cause bitterness in tea, is easily extracted at high temperatures. However, hojicha's low caffeine content means it's less likely to become bitter even when brewed with hot water. Hojicha leaves are dry and light, so they may appear more voluminous than sencha leaves of the same weight. For the best results, we recommend using a scale to measure the tea leaves accurately. While sencha typically steeps for over a minute, hojicha can become astringent if left too long. Aim for a steeping time of about 30 seconds to achieve a fragrant and delicious cup of hojicha.
How to Brew Delicious Hojicha
＜What You'll Need (per person)＞
・Teapot (preferably transparent) ・Scale (also known as a measuring device) ・Hot water (120ml) ・Hojicha tea leaves (4g)
＜Brewing Steps＞ 【1】Place the tea leaves in the teapot
Hojicha leaves are light and large, so they may appear more voluminous than sencha leaves.
【2】Pour hot water directly onto the tea leaves
Pour 90-100°C water directly onto the tea leaves.
[Tip] If the tea leaves float without absorbing water, there's a risk of hot water overflowing when you put the lid on, potentially causing burns. To prevent this, aim the water stream directly at the leaves.
【3】Let it steep for 30 seconds without the lid
Enjoy the unique aroma of hojicha rising with the steam.
[Tip] Leaving the lid off allows any burnt smell from the roasting process to dissipate.
【4】Put the lid on, hold the side opposite the spout, and pour into cups
Place the lid on the transparent teapot and pour the tea into cups. As hojicha is brewed at high temperatures, the teapot can become hot, so hold it on the side opposite the spout.
[Tip] When brewing tea for two people, mix the first and second infusions to make two cups. To prevent bitterness, steep the second infusion for only about 20 seconds. Remember to use hot water for the second infusion as well.
【5】Enhance the experience with tea snacks or meals
Hojicha, with its low bitterness and refreshing taste, pairs perfectly with sweet snacks and everyday meals. From simple Japanese sweets to special Western desserts, and even seasonal dishes... Enjoy pairing hojicha with various foods to suit your daily life.
Relax with a Cup of Hot Hojicha
The aroma of hojicha is said to have a relaxing effect on the mind. Its low caffeine content makes it popular among children and older adults as well. Try brewing a fragrant and delicious cup of hojicha using these tips and savor the experience.
