Hojicha

Hojicha Tea Benefits

Hojicha is a green tea that originates from Japan where the green tea leaves are roasted in a porcelain pot over charcoal. The roasting process creates a less acidic green tea with a lower caffeine content. This process was discovered in 1920 by accident when a merchant used the leftover leaves by roasting them instead of steaming which was the typical process for green tea. The roasted green tea was a hit and it was soon found in all the tea shops.

There are many benefits to drinking Hojicha because it is rich in vitamins, amino acids, minerals and antioxidants. L-Theanine is one amino acid found in green tea which has been proven to play an important role in relieving stress disorders, improving mood, and maintaining normal sleep. This study shows how L-Theanine can increase cognitive function and attention span.

Hojicha is rich in the antioxidant catechin. Catechins are shown to boost the metabolism, reduce inflammation, suppress tumors and viruses. This study shows green tea, roasted green tea, and black tea significantly inactivated SARS-CoV-2 in vitro.

This roasted green tea also contains a high amount of Chlorophyll. The benefits of Chlorophyll are numerous. Studies have shown that Chlorophyll is able to bind to heavy metals and help to detox them from the body. Chlorophyll can also oxygenate the blood and increase red blood cells. Because of this it is said to help with anemia. One benefit of Chlorophyll is the ability to eliminate body odor and acne. When you eat and drink foods rich in Chlorophyll you’ll look healthier and even smell better!

Hojicha vs. Matcha

Both hojicha and matcha come from green tea leaves but Matcha is from young leaves while hojicha is sourced and roasted from mature leaves. Honestly you can’t go wrong with either type of green tea because they are both full of healthy benefits and it might come down to personal preference. There are some differences though such as Matcha containing more caffeine and tasting a little more bitter and grassier. Another difference is that during the roasting process Hojicha releases an organic compound called pyrazine which aids in digestion, stabilizes the nervous system and increases blood circulation by opening blood vessels. Pyrazine is also found in red wine, coffee, cocoa, roasted nuts and even green peppers.

What does Hojicha taste like?

Hojicha has a mild nutty flavor. The roasting process really comes through in the taste. It’s not bitter or acidic tasting but some people liken it to coffee or chocolate. I personally love the taste of it!

Latte Recipe

Because of it’s low caffeine content I love making a latte with it in the afternoons without fear that I’ll be up all night. It makes a great coffee alternative!

First you want to make a Hojicha shot which is 1/2 tsp Hojicha powder whisked into 2 oz of cool water. Then add shot to 6-8 oz of milk. If you’d like a hot latte warm your milk first or add ice for an iced latte. Sweeten with your choice of sweetener such as maple syrup, honey or stevia.

If you would like to just drink it as a hot tea then add the Hojicha shot to 2-4 oz of hot water. Sweeten as desired. To make an iced tea add a 2 oz Hojicha shot to 6 oz of water and serve over ice. You can find the brand that I use by Jade Leaf here.

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