The difference between Hojicha tea and Genmaicha tea

Both culminating in the revered symbol of tea, “Cha” (茶), Genmaicha and Hojicha share a common botanical origin in the Camellia Sinensis plant and a cultural heritage rooted in Japan. However, it is their distinct craftsmanship and thoughtful processing that transform them into two remarkably different yet equally exquisite brews.

What is Hojicha Tea?

Hojicha stands out among Japanese green teas for its warm, roasted flavour and rich amber liquor. Unlike other green teas, it undergoes a final roasting process that transforms its fresh, grassy notes into a sweet, nutty flavour profile. Despite this transformation, it remains a green tea, as the leaves are not oxidised.

Hojicha Origin

Hojicha originated in Kyoto, born from the ingenuity of tea merchants aiming to make use of leftover tea leaves, stems, and twigs. By roasting these in a pan or a specialised machine, they uncovered a deeply aromatic tea with a smooth, earthy profile and a gentle smokiness. Today, this process is highly refined, requiring careful temperature control and skilled handling to avoid burning the leaves.

Newby's Hojicha Powder originates from Kagoshima Prefecture, nestled on the southern Japanese island of Kyushu. Celebrated for its fertile volcanic soils, warm temperatures and generous rainfall, this renowned tea-growing region offers an exceptional terroir for cultivating Japanese green tea. The carefully selected leaves undergo a meticulous roasting process before being stone-milled into a fine, smooth powder.

Hojicha Flavour Profile

The result of infusing the leaves is a stunning amber-hued infusion with aromas of roasted nuts and warm wood. Hojicha taste is smooth and mellow, with indulgent notes of caramel, toasted grain, and chocolate, finished with a delicate smokiness. It’s a comforting, grounding experience that sets it apart from the fresh, grassy character typical of green teas.

Newby's Hojicha Powder offers a rich, roasted flavour that showcases the character of this traditional Japanese tea. Sourced from Kagoshima Prefecture and carefully triple-roasted, it has smooth, mellow notes of toasted nuts, caramel and delicate charred wood. Stone-milled into a fine powder, it has a velvety texture and a lingering roasted finish, perfect for enjoying on its own or in a creamy hojicha latte.

What is Genmaicha Tea?

Genmaicha green tea is a traditional blend of Japanese green tea and toasted rice. This unique pairing creates a tea with gentle sweetness and nutty depth, often referred to as “popcorn tea” due to the occasional popping of rice during roasting.

Genmaicha Origin

Genmaicha traces its history back to the Edo period (1603–1868), when roasted brown rice was added to green tea to make it more affordable and accessible. Over time, this blend became a beloved staple, valued not only for its flavour but for its connection to simplicity, sustainability, and comfort.

Genmaicha Flavour Profile

Genmaicha taste offers a vibrant yellow-green cup with a clean, leafy freshness layered over warm, toasted cereal notes. The toasted rice, made from carefully steamed and roasted white mochi rice, contributes a malty richness and natural sweetness that complements the tea’s mineral depth.

What is the Difference Between Genmaicha Taste and Hojicha Taste?

While both teas feature warm, roasted notes, their taste profiles offer distinct experiences:

• Genmaicha balances the fresh brightness of green tea with the toasty warmth of roasted rice. Its flavour is light, nutty, and gently sweet.

• Hojicha, on the other hand, has a deeper, rounder character. The roasting process removes grassy notes, leaving behind a smooth, earthy blend of wood, nuts, and a hint of smoke.

Hojicha Tea Benefits vs Genmaicha Tea Benefits

Both Genmaicha and Hojicha offer the natural health benefits of green tea, including:

• A wealth of antioxidants that support cardiovascular health and radiant skin

• Aid in digestion and metabolism

• Calming effects due to their smooth, low-caffeine nature

Genmaicha tea benefits also include its soothing qualities when fasting. The roasted rice provides a sense of warmth and fullness, making it a comforting beverage even on an empty stomach.

Hojicha tea benefits lie in its relaxing profile, making it an ideal evening tea thanks to its gentle flavour and naturally low caffeine content.

Hojicha Caffeine Content vs Genmaicha Caffeine Content

• Hojicha typically contains significantly less caffeine than Genmaicha, especially when made using mature leaves or stems. The roasting process also reduces some of its antioxidant compounds, particularly catechins. Its naturally low caffeine content makes it an excellent choice for those looking to reduce their caffeine intake or enjoy a comforting tea in the evening.

• Genmaicha caffeine content varies depending on the tea base:

  • Genmaicha made with Bancha (mature leaves) generally has a lower caffeine content.

  • Newby’s Premium Genmaicha, made with Sencha (younger leaves), typically contains more caffeine and offers a fresher, umami-rich flavour.

  • The toasted rice is caffeine-free, which helps balance the overall effect.

How to Brew Genmaicha Green Tea

To make a smooth cup of Genmaicha:

• Use 2.5g of tea per 250ml of water

• Brew at 80°C for 2–3 minutes

• For multiple infusions, increase the quantity to 5 g of tea per 250 ml of water. This allows you to enjoy several brews, with each infusion revealing different layers of the tea’s fresh, vegetal notes and warm, toasted rice flavour.

How to Brew Hojicha Green Tea Leaves

To enjoy Hojicha tea at its best:

• Use 2g of tea per 250ml of water

• Brew at 100°C for 2–3 minutes

• No additions are required to enjoy its naturally rich flavour, although a touch of honey can add a gentle sweetness.

How to Make a Hojicha Latte

To make a creamy hot Hojicha latte:

1. Sieve 3g of Newby's Hojicha Powder into a bowl.

2. Add 70ml of hot water (70°C) and whisk until smooth.

3. Heat and froth 180ml of oat milk.

4. Pour the milk over the hojicha.

5. Add maple, caramel or vanilla syrup if desired.
   
   

FAQs

Is Hojicha the same as Genmaicha?

No. While both are Japanese green teas, Hojicha is made by roasting tea leaves, while Genmaicha is a blend of green tea and toasted rice.

Which Japanese green tea is healthiest?

All green teas offer unique benefits. Hojicha is ideal for those wanting a low-caffeine, calming tea, while Genmaicha is excellent for digestion and fasting.

Is Hojicha good for you?

Yes. It’s rich in antioxidants and gentle on the stomach, making it a perfect tea for relaxation and evening drinking.

What is Genmaicha tea good for?

Genmaicha is known for aiding digestion, calming the stomach, and offering a satisfying, warming experience—especially during fasting or after meals.