If you love the idea of green tea but find it a bit sharp, astringent, or just too strong — meet Hojicha. This Japanese roasted green tea has all the goodness of traditional green tea, without the bitterness or caffeine hit. It’s smooth, nutty, gently warming, and brilliant for anyone looking to slow down without switching off.
Thanks to its unique roast, Hojicha is incredibly soothing and versatile — lovely as a hot cup, and just as delightful poured over ice in summer.
What Is Hojicha?
Hojicha (ほうじ茶) is made by roasting green tea leaves — often the mature ones or stems — over high heat. The process caramelises the leaf’s natural sugars and gives it its signature amber colour and toasted flavour.
Unlike steamed green teas like sencha or gyokuro, Hojicha has a much milder, almost nutty taste, reminiscent of hazelnut or cocoa and with very low caffeine. That makes it ideal for evenings, gentle mornings, and anyone sensitive to stimulants.
Backed by Science: Hojicha’s Health Benefits
A 2024 scientific study dug into Hojicha’s chemical makeup and functional properties — and it turns out this mellow brew is no slouch when it comes to benefits:
- Rich in antioxidants: Despite the roast, Hojicha still contains polyphenols and flavonoids that combat oxidative stress and inflammation.
- Supports digestion: Compounds in Hojicha may help inhibit digestive enzymes like α-amylase and α-glucosidase — suggesting potential benefits for blood sugar balance and gut health.
- Gentle on the stomach: The roasting reduces bitterness and catechin content, making it less likely to irritate sensitive stomachs.
- Low in caffeine: A typical cup has significantly less caffeine than other green teas, so you can sip it into the evening without worry, unless you're very sensitive to it - your call.
- Anti-inflammatory potential: The study noted enzyme-inhibiting and antioxidant effects that may help reduce inflammation in the body.
How to Prepare Hojicha
Hojicha is wonderfully unfussy — great for beginners or anyone craving simplicity in their tea routine.
Hot brew: Use 1–2 teaspoons per cup, steep in 80–90°C water for 2–3 minutes. Its mellow flavour won’t go very bitter if you forget it for a moment, but avoid leaving it more than that if bitterness is not your friend.
Cold brew: Add 1 tablespoon of Hojicha to a jug of cold water, steep in the fridge overnight, and enjoy the next day — smooth, sweet and refreshing.
Latte lovers: Try brewing it double strength and topping with oat or almond milk for a roasted twist on your usual green tea latte.
Any Downsides?
Hojicha is generally very well tolerated, but as always, moderation is key. While the caffeine is low, it's not zero — so if you're extremely sensitive or pregnant, it’s still worth checking in with your GP.
And because it’s made from roasted green tea, it contains fewer catechins than steamed varieties — but that’s part of what makes it gentler on the stomach and more approachable in flavour.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're a seasoned tea lover or just starting your journey, Hojicha is one of those blends that surprises you. It’s soothing, nutty, versatile and deeply comforting — all while offering subtle health benefits and a caffeine-light lift.
Looking to explore roasted teas? Try our Hojicha here and discover what gentle brilliance tastes like.