The Ultimate Guide to Organic Hojicha
Introduction to Hojicha
Hojicha is taking the tea world by storm. Once a quiet staple of Japanese households, this roasted green tea powder is now beloved by baristas, wellness seekers, and culinary creatives around the globe. Its deep, comforting flavour and naturally low caffeine make it a soothing alternative to matcha.
AVANTCHA’s Organic Hojicha Powder stands out for its balanced flavour achieved by careful, skilled roasting, and our commitment to organic sourcing.
This guide is for:
- Tea enthusiasts seeking something unique and grounding
- Café professionals looking to diversify their menus
- Wellness seekers in search of calm and flavour
- And anyone curious about this extraordinary roasted tea powder
What Is Hojicha?
Hojicha is a roasted green tea, traditionally made from the stems of Tencha tea leaves used for making Matcha. Unlike Matcha, which is vivid green and vegetal, hojicha is warm brown and toasty, roasted slowly to transform its profile. It is then milled to a fine powder.
Key Differences:
- Matcha: bright, vegetal, high in caffeine
- Sencha: steamed, verdant, light
- Hojicha: roasted, nutty, low caffeine
Originating in Kyoto in the 1920s, hojicha was developed to repurpose leftover tea leaves and stems. Through roasting, a new, mellow flavour was born… caramelised, aromatic, and uniquely Japanese. Hojicha is available as a loose leaf tea (Japanese Kuki Hojicha), and also as a tea powder.
The Craft Behind AVANTCHA’s Hojicha Powder
Our Organic Hojicha Powder is made from a delicate blend of tencha stems and first flush leaves sourced from Shizuoka, Kagoshima, and Miyazaki, three renowned tea regions of Japan.
Under the guidance of Tea Master Inagaki Nobuaki, these leaves are:
- Slowly roasted using time-honoured techniques
- Jet-milled into an ultra-fine powder
- Nitrogen-packed to lock in aroma, flavour, and freshness
- This masterful combination results in a hojicha that’s rich, nuanced, and ready for both drinking and culinary experimentation.
Hojicha Tasting Notes & Aroma Profile
Flavour:
- Roasted pistachio
- Malty warmth
- Hints of milky coffee
Aroma:
- Stone fruit (plum)
- Toasted sweetness
- Earthy, nostalgic warmth
Whether prepared with water or milk (or milk alternative), AVANTCHA’s Hojicha Powder delivers a round, velvety mouthfeel, with a slightly sweet, lingering aftertaste. Milk deepens the creaminess, while water reveals its pure, roasted heart.
5. Health & Wellness Benefits
Hojicha is often considered a tea for rest and restoration.
- Naturally low in caffeine so perfect for evening rituals or caffeine-sensitive drinkers
- Rich in antioxidants and vitamins A, C, and E
- Soothing often enjoyed after meals
- A mindful, meditative experience
6. How to Prepare It: Step-by-Step
The AVANTCHA-Standard Latte
To make an AVANTCHA-standard Organic Hojicha latte, use 2 Matcha Spoons (3g) of Organic Hojicha latte powder.
Sift the Organic Hojicha powder into bowl or press whisk down several times to break up and loosen the powder.
Add 50ml of 75°C water and whisk briskly. Top up with 150ml of cold or hot frothed milk.
For more Hojicha recipes, visit our recipes section on the AVANTCHA Journal >
7. Culinary Uses & Pairings
Hojicha’s roasted flavour makes it incredibly versatile in the kitchen.
Pair It With:
- Tahini
- Figs
- Halva
- Caramelised or sticky desserts
Try These Recipes:
Tip for cafés: Add a roasted twist to lattes, frappés, or even affogato.
8. Why Choose AVANTCHA’s Hojicha Powder?
- 100% Organic no pesticides or artificial inputs
- Transparent sourcing from Japan’s best terroirs
- Master-roasted using specialist techniques
- Sustainable, airtight packaging for long-lasting freshness
9. Frequently Asked Questions
How does Hojicha differ from Matcha?
Matcha is creamy, rich, and sweet, and high in caffeine. Hojicha is roasted, mellow, and low in caffeine.
Does it contain caffeine?
Yes, but in very small amounts… less than 10mg per cup.
Is it suitable for children?
Yes! Its low caffeine and smooth taste make it kid-friendly.
How long does it stay fresh?
Best consumed within 3–6 months of opening. Store airtight in the fridge.
Can I cook or bake with it?
Absolutely. It works wonderfully in desserts, smoothies, and sauces.
Are you a restaurant or cafe and wanting to explore the world of Hojicha? We offer a reliable supply and fast delivery, with constant innovation and ongoing training from our expert team. Get in touch here to get sample, discover how we can support you and craft something unique. You might also like to visit our Matcha for Professionals knowledge page here >
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