Save Indulge in the soothing experience of a Hot Hojicha Latte, a cozy and aromatic beverage that offers a unique twist on traditional green tea. This drink is crafted using roasted green tea powder, which provides a nutty, toasted flavor profile that is perfectly complemented by velvety steamed milk and a hint of sweetness. It is the ideal choice for creating relaxing moments or warming up on chilly days.
Save Hojicha stands out from other green teas because the leaves are roasted at high temperatures, resulting in a beautiful reddish-brown color and a flavor that hints at caramel and cocoa. When prepared as a latte, this powder dissolves into a rich base that, when topped with frothy milk, creates a cafe-style drink in the comfort of your own home.
Ingredients
- Tea
- 2 teaspoons hojicha powder (roasted green tea powder)
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) hot water (about 80°C/175°F)
- Milk
- 1 1/2 cups (360 ml) milk (dairy or plant-based)
- Sweetener (optional)
- 1–2 teaspoons honey, maple syrup, or sugar (to taste)
Instructions
- Step 1
- In a small bowl, sift the hojicha powder to remove lumps.
- Step 2
- Add hot water to the hojicha powder and whisk until fully dissolved and frothy, using a bamboo whisk (chasen) or a small regular whisk.
- Step 3
- In a saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until steaming but not boiling. Froth the milk with a milk frother or whisk until creamy.
- Step 4
- Pour the dissolved hojicha into two mugs.
- Step 5
- Add sweetener to each mug, if using, and stir to combine.
- Step 6
- Gently pour the steamed milk over the tea base, holding back the foam with a spoon, then spoon the foam on top.
- Step 7
- Serve immediately, optionally garnished with a sprinkle of hojicha powder.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure a smooth texture, always sift your hojicha powder before adding water. Using water at approximately 80°C (175°F) prevents the tea from becoming bitter, preserving its natural toasted sweetness. For the best foam, a milk frother is highly recommended, though a vigorous whisking in the saucepan can also produce a lovely creamy top.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a vegan version, use oat, soy, or almond milk and a plant-based sweetener like maple syrup. You can also adjust the sweetness and milk ratio to match your personal taste. For an iced version, let the brewed hojicha cool completely, then serve it over ice with cold milk for a refreshing alternative.
Serviervorschläge
Serve your latte immediately while it's steaming hot. For a professional touch, garnish the top of the foam with a light sprinkle of hojicha powder. This beverage pairs beautifully with a simple biscuit or a piece of dark chocolate to enhance the roasted notes of the tea.
Save Whether you are looking for a caffeine-alternative or a new way to enjoy Japanese tea, this Hot Hojicha Latte provides a deeply satisfying and warm experience in every mug.
Recipe FAQs
- → What does hojicha taste like?
Hojicha has a distinctive nutty, caramel-like flavor with earthy undertones. The roasting process reduces bitterness, resulting in a smooth, mellow tea that's naturally less astringent than other green teas.
- → Can I make this iced?
Yes! Brew the hojicha concentrate as directed, let it cool completely, then pour over ice and add cold milk. Adjust the ratios slightly since the drink won't be diluted by melting ice.
- → What milk works best for hojicha latte?
Whole dairy milk creates the creamiest texture, but oat milk froths beautifully and complements the roasted notes. Almond, soy, and coconut milk also work well for different flavor profiles.
- → Do I need a bamboo whisk?
A bamboo whisk (chasen) is traditional and creates excellent foam, but a small regular whisk or electric frother works perfectly fine. The key is whisking vigorously to dissolve the powder completely.
- → Is hojicha caffeinated?
Yes, hojicha contains caffeine though typically less than regular green tea due to the roasting process. Each latte contains roughly 20-30mg of caffeine per serving, making it gentler than coffee.
- → How should I store hojicha powder?
Keep hojicha powder in an airtight container away from light, heat, and moisture. Properly stored, it maintains freshness for 6-12 months. Avoid refrigeration as condensation can affect quality.