What is the difference between Hojicha and Matcha?

When it comes to Japanese tea, the options are pretty diverse. Among them, Matcha is the most famous , especially in a latte. However, have you ever heard of Hojicha? It is a cousin of Matcha, different in taste, color and function. 

Hojicha: A Toasty flavor

Flavor Profile: Hojicha is a roasted green tea made from green tea leaves and stems. Unlike other green teas, Hojicha has a reddish-brown color and a earthy, toasty flavor. Unlike Matcha, the leaves are roasted which gives it a nutty, toasty taste.

Best Occasion: Hojicha is the perfect choice to enjoy a comforting drink that does not have an energy kick but still a tea flavor.

Matcha: The Ceremonial Elegance

Flavor Profile: Matcha, a finely ground green tea powder, is renowned for its vibrant green color. Unlike Hojicha, Matcha is shade-grown, which gives a rich and umami taste.

Best Occasion: Matcha is perfect for moments where you want to focus to study or for work and is also calming (in contrast with coffee)

Overall the key differences are the process in which Hojicha is made by roasting green tea leaves while matcha is made from grinding shade-grown tea leaves, the brown color of Hojicha vs the bright green color of Matcha and the caffeine content for which they are drank for different occasions. Both of them are widely used in recipes such as chocolate, cookies and so on.

If you are curious about Hojicha, you may want to try our new addition to the menu, the Hojicha Latte warm or iced, which is best with some sugar to enjoy a comforting drink.