Houjicha Recipe
A house-roasted tea that complements sushi without overpowering its flavor.
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Ingredients
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Tea Leaves
Water
Method
Preparation of Ingredients
- 1
Roasting the Tea Leaves
Spread the green tea leaves on a baking sheet in a single layer. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Roast the tea leaves for about 10 minutes, stirring halfway to ensure even roasting. The leaves should turn a light brown color, releasing a nutty aroma.
- 2
Roasting Barley (if using)
If using roasted barley, you can roast it in the oven for about 5 minutes, until golden brown. This will enhance its flavor and aroma.
Brewing the Tea
- 3
Boiling Water
In a kettle, bring 1 litre of filtered water to a boil. Once boiling, remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly. The ideal temperature for brewing Houjicha is around 80°C (175°F).
- 4
Steeping the Tea
Add the roasted green tea leaves (and roasted barley if using) to a teapot. Pour the hot water over the leaves and let them steep for 1-2 minutes. Adjust the steeping time according to your taste preference; longer steeping will yield a stronger flavor.
- 5
Straining the Tea
After steeping, strain the tea into cups or a serving pot to remove the leaves. This will ensure a smooth drinking experience without any sediment.
