Genmaicha, 2 Oz

Description

Genmaicha is a hearty traditional Japanese green tea made from freshly harvested tea leaves and toasted rice. Bancha is the most common base for this lovely tea blend, but it can vary from region to region, some even using powdered matcha. Puffed brown rice or mochi rice gives a toasted, nutty flavor, reminiscent of puffed rice cereal. Sometimes the rice can even pop like popcorn, giving it the nickname “popcorn tea”. The addition of toasty rice to this simple blend brings a nice, nutty flavor into balance with the fresh, vegetal notes of the base. 

While it is uncertain the exact origin of this tea, one version of the story is this tea was created in 1900s Japan. An inspired tea merchant decided adding rice to the expensive green tea was an excellent way to make it stretch a bit further. Another account cites Japanese housewives adding rice to their green tea to make it last. Most of the recollections of this tea’s origin all have one thing in common – satisfying the need to fill up for less!

This particular tea is said to have many health benefits, the most popular one being a useful digestive aid. Like other green teas, Genmaicha is high in a nutrient called catechins, especially EGCG (Epigallocatechin Gallate), which is highly regarded in preventative healthcare. These catechins provide many antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, making green tea one of the healthiest beverages on the planet. 

This green tea is typically lower in caffeine, especially when Bancha is used as the base. Because of the mild and warm flavor, Genmaicha can be brewed specifically to the consumer’s liking. Add about a tablespoon of tea leaves into your brewing vessel, such as our 12 Oz Tea Pot. We recommend a brewing temperature of about 185°-195°F. This tea will brew quickly at about 30 seconds and can be steeped once more for a second cup.

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.