Hojicha powder is a powdered, roasted green tea originally from Uji, Kyoto. Ideal to blend into Hojicha lattes and Japanese sweets. With a lower caffeine content than coffee and other Japanese Teas, it makes a refreshing afternoon drink. We airship our Hojicha powder from Kyoto to Australia each month to ensure a fresher product. Available in a Dark or Medium Roast option.


Our Hojicha Powder is also available in wholesale sizes.

What is Hojicha Powder?

If you're a fan of Japanese tea, you may have come across the term "hojicha powder." Made from roasted green tea leaves, this unique powder has become popular in recent years for its distinct flavour and potential health benefits. But what exactly is hojicha powder, and how can you use it? In this article, we'll explore the origins of hojicha powder, its health benefits, and how to incorporate it into your daily routine.

The Origins of Hojicha Powder

Hojicha powder is a type of Japanese green tea that is made by roasting tea leaves over charcoal. This process gives the tea a distinct smoky flavor and rich, amber color. While hojicha tea has been enjoyed in Japan for centuries, the powder form is a more recent development.

The Roasting Process of Hojicha

The roasting process is what gives hojicha powder its unique flavour and color. After the tea leaves are harvested, they are roasted over charcoal at a high temperature, which causes them to darken and develop a nutty, smoky aroma. The leaves are then ground into a fine powder, which can be used to make tea or incorporated into other dishes.

Roasting tea leaves over charcoal is a traditional method that has been used in Japan for centuries. The process is time-consuming and requires a skilled hand, as the leaves must be carefully monitored to prevent them from burning. However, the resulting tea is well worth the effort, as it has a rich, complex flavour that is unlike any other.

One of the benefits of hojicha powder is that it can be used in a variety of ways. In addition to making tea, it can be added to baked goods, smoothies, and other recipes to give them a unique, smoky flavour. Some people even use hojicha powder as a seasoning for savoury dishes, such as roasted vegetables or grilled meats.

Another benefit of hojicha powder is that it is lower in caffeine than other types of green tea. This makes it a great choice for those who want to enjoy the flavour of green tea without the jitters that can come with high caffeine levels. Additionally, hojicha powder is high in antioxidants, which can help to protect the body from damage caused by free radicals.

Overall, hojicha powder is a versatile and delicious ingredient that is well worth trying. Whether you use it to make tea, baked goods, or savory dishes, it is sure to add a unique and flavorful twist to your recipes.

Lower Caffeine Content

Because hojicha tea is roasted, it has a lower caffeine content than other types of green tea. This makes it a great option for those who are sensitive to caffeine or looking to reduce their overall intake. In fact, hojicha powder is often recommended as a bedtime drink as it is less likely to interfere with sleep than other types of tea.

Additionally, hojicha powder contains theanine, an amino acid that has been shown to have a calming effect on the body. Theanine may help to reduce stress and anxiety, improve sleep quality, and enhance cognitive function.

How to Use Hojicha Powder

There are many ways to incorporate hojicha powder into your daily routine. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Preparing Hojicha Tea

To make hojicha tea, simply whisk one tablespoon of hojicha powder into hot water using a traditional chasen (bamboo whisk) or an electric whisk. You can also add milk and sweetener to create a hojicha latte.

Cooking and Baking with Hojicha

Hojicha powder can be used in a variety of recipes, from cookies to ice cream. Simply add the powder to your favorite recipe and adjust the amount to taste. Keep in mind that hojicha has a distinct flavour, so it may not work well in all recipes.

Hojicha Powder in Smoothies and Lattes

You can also add hojicha powder to smoothies and lattes for an extra boost of flavor and nutrition. Simply blend it together with your favourite ingredients and enjoy.

Shelf Life and Storage Tips

Hojicha powder should be used within six months to a year of purchase for best flavour and quality. If storing for longer periods, consider freezing the powder to prevent oxidation.

Hojicha vs. Matcha

Matcha is a type of powdered green tea that is highly valued in Japanese tea culture. While both hojicha and matcha are ground into a fine powder, they have very different flavours and properties. Matcha has a bright green color and a vegetal, slightly bitter flavour, while hojicha has a darker colour and a nutty, smoky flavour.

Hojicha vs. Sencha

Sencha is another popular type of Japanese green tea. Unlike hojicha, it is not roasted but steamed and dried to preserve its natural flavour and color. Sencha has a grassy, vegetal flavor and is typically brewed in loose-leaf form rather than as a powder.

Hojicha vs. Genmaicha

Genmaicha is a unique type of Japanese tea that is made by combining green tea leaves with toasted brown rice. This gives the tea a nutty, roasted flavor and a distinct aroma. While hojicha and genmaicha both have a roasted flavour, genmaicha has a more complex flavour profile thanks to the addition of rice.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're a tea aficionado or simply looking to try something new, hojicha powder is definitely worth exploring. With its unique flavour, potential health benefits, and versatility in the kitchen, it offers something for everyone. So why not give it a try and see what all the fuss is about?