Tea with rice – traditions of Japanese cuisine

Rice is a staple food in Eastern countries, often considered as essential as bread. However, not everyone knows that in some Asian cultures, rice is added to tea—a fact that may seem unusual to outsiders. But in countries like Japan, this drink is well known and deeply appreciated. It is called “Genmaicha.”

Among the wide variety of beverages, Japanese roasted rice tea Genmaicha holds a special place. This unique drink was created centuries ago. It contains dried green tea leaves and roasted brown rice. The roasting process gives the tea a gentle and delicate popcorn-like flavor.

Rice tea is made not only in Japan but also in China. However, there are some differences. Chinese tea leaves are pan-fired, while Japanese leaves are steamed and then air-dried.

What Ingredients Are in Japanese Roasted Rice Tea Genmaicha?

Japanese roasted rice tea originated from the creativity of common people in ancient times. To save on food and drink, they blended tea leaves with rice grains. This aromatic and nourishing tea has many nicknames, such as “people’s tea,” “popcorn tea,” and “geisha’s breakfast.”

The tea base includes two types of tea leaves:

• Sencha – harvested in spring and steamed using special techniques that help retain beneficial compounds. It gives the tea a light bitterness and astringency.
• Bancha – larger and tougher leaves harvested in autumn.

The distinct flavor of Genmaicha also comes from the roasted rice grains. Two types are used:

• Uruchigome – non-glutinous rice that retains tea clarity and supports digestion thanks to its nutrients.
• Mochigome – sticky rice rich in vitamins and minerals, giving the tea a deeper color and slightly sweet taste.

The rice and tea leaves should be used in equal proportions. Add 200–300 ml of water depending on the amount of mixture.

Roasted Rice Tea: Taste and Features

Genmaicha is a drink filled with the gentle aroma of roasted rice. If it contains mochigome rice, it takes on a rich yellow-green color. This type of green rice tea is highly valued and can even be consumed as a soup with a unique flavor.

Simple and Unique Japanese Green Tea with Rice

Japanese farmers were the first to start adding rice to tea, creating a beverage and a small snack at the same time. Today, this green rice tea is gaining global popularity and winning the hearts of tea lovers around the world.

There are many ways to brew this tea, but the best is to use a teapot with a strainer that filters out fine leaves. It can also be brewed in a cup, though the leaves may float. Genmaicha brews quickly, so monitor steeping time and strength according to your preference.

Brewing Process

If you've decided to buy rice tea and don't know how to brew it, follow these simple steps:

1. Place the tea mixture into a teapot or infuser.
2. Pour in boiling water.
3. Let it steep for 3–5 minutes, then enjoy on its own or with a side dish.

This tea is not just for quenching thirst—it also serves as a nutritious broth. You can enjoy it during lunch or dinner.

Drink up to three cups per day. Genmaicha satisfies hunger, quenches thirst, and supports weight control without dieting or hunger.

If you prefer a lighter brew, don’t steep it for too long. If you enjoy strong tea, let it steep longer. You can rebrew the tea until the leaves cool. Once cold, they lose their flavor and nutrients, so should not be reused.

Properties of Rice Tea

This tea is both a beverage and a light meal. Thanks to the rice, it is nourishing and energizing while remaining figure-friendly. However, people with stomach issues, high acidity, or low blood pressure should consume it in moderation.

Main health benefits of Genmaicha include:

• stimulating digestion,
• detoxifying the body,
• boosting energy levels,
• strengthening the immune system,
• providing essential vitamins and minerals.

Genmaicha can be brewed 3–5 times, making it a full meal replacement. One of its most surprising features is that its taste improves with each brew. That’s why we recommend you buy green tea with roasted rice and enjoy its subtle flavor and health benefits.

Where to Buy Green Tea with Rice?

You can order authentic Japanese rice tea online from our store. We offer only top-quality products at great prices. Read reviews from happy customers or leave your own. If you choose to buy Japanese green tea with roasted rice from us, you’ll enjoy its gentle taste and health benefits. Treat your loved ones to this high-quality tea from the best online tea shop!