What is Hojicha?
In the ever-expanding world of tea, Hojicha stands out for its soothing aroma, deep roasted flavor, and low caffeine content. Originating from Kyoto, Japan, this toasty green tea is unlike any other. Whether you’re a seasoned tea lover or just beginning your journey, Hojicha offers a warm, calming experience perfect for any time of day.
Hojicha (ほうじ茶) is a traditional Japanese green tea that undergoes a unique roasting process, which transforms the tea leaves from green to a rich brown. While most green teas are steamed, Hojicha is roasted over charcoal or in porcelain pots at high temperatures, typically using bancha or sencha leaves.
This process not only alters its colour and flavour but also reduces its caffeine content, making it a favourite in Japan for evening tea or for children and the elderly.
If you're curious to taste this one-of-a-kind tea, try our organic Hojicha Bocha tea.
Flavour profile of Hojicha
What sets Hojicha apart is its distinct flavour—warm, nutty, and slightly caramel-like. It lacks the grassy bitterness of other green teas and instead offers a mellow, almost chocolatey depth.
- Toasty and smooth
- Earthy and sweet
- No astringency or bitterness
This flavour makes Hojicha incredibly versatile, whether served hot, cold, or as part of a tea latte.
Health Benefits of Hojicha
Despite its roasted nature, Hojicha retains many of the health-boosting antioxidants found in green tea. Here's why it belongs in your daily routine:
Low caffeine content
With only a fraction of the caffeine found in matcha or sencha, Hojicha is ideal for:
- Evening relaxation
- People sensitive to caffeine
- A calming bedtime ritual
High in Antioxidants
Roasting doesn’t destroy all of its catechins and polyphenols, which help:
- Combat free radicals
- Boost immunity
- Support anti-aging processes
Gentle on the Stomach
Because of its lower acidity and roast process, Hojicha is:
- Easier to digest
- Perfect after meals
Stress Reduction
Rich in L-theanine, Hojicha promotes:
- Mental clarity
- Relaxation without drowsiness
Hojicha is not just any green tea—it’s a soothing, roasted gem fit for any lifestyle. Low on caffeine, with rich health benefits, and smooth flavour, it’s great with newbies just starting out, as well as for aficionados. Whether it’s hot, iced, or whipped into a rich latte, this no-frills tea has worked its way into the world of wellness and flavour as a new star on the rise.
