Save This Hot Hojicha Latte is a cozy and aromatic Japanese beverage that brings comfort to any moment. Made with roasted green tea powder, it offers a unique, earthy flavor profile that is perfectly balanced by creamy steamed milk and a hint of sweetness. Ideal for relaxing moments or chilly days, it is a sophisticated alternative to your standard coffee routine.
Save Hojicha is distinct from other green teas because the leaves are roasted, resulting in a warm caramel hue and a distinctive nutty taste. When whisked into a frothy tea base and topped with velvety milk, it creates a comforting drink that feels like a warm hug in a mug. Whether you're seeking a mindful morning start or a soothing evening treat, this latte is the perfect companion.
Ingredients
- Tea: 2 teaspoons hojicha powder (roasted green tea powder)
- Water: 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: 1–2 teaspoons honey, maple syrup, or sugar (optional, to taste)
Instructions
- Step 1
- In a small bowl, sift the hojicha powder using a fine mesh sieve to ensure there are no lumps.
- Step 2
- Add the hot water (80°C/175°F) to the powder and whisk until fully dissolved and frothy, using a bamboo whisk (chasen) or a small regular whisk.
- Step 3
- In a small saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until steaming but not boiling. Froth the milk with a milk frother or whisk until it becomes creamy.
- Step 4
- Divide the prepared hojicha tea base into two mugs.
- Step 5
- Add your choice of sweetener to each mug, if using, and stir gently to combine.
- Step 6
- Gently pour the steamed milk over the tea base, holding back the foam with a spoon, then finish by spooning the foam on top.
- Step 7
- Serve immediately, optionally garnished with a light sprinkle of hojicha powder.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To achieve the best texture, always sift your hojicha powder first to prevent stubborn clumps. Using a bamboo whisk (chasen) helps create a finer foam for the tea base, which integrates more smoothly with the steamed milk. Ensure your water is around 80°C; boiling water can sometimes make the roasted notes taste overly bitter.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a vegan version, this latte is delicious when made with oat, soy, or almond milk and sweetened with maple syrup. If you prefer a refreshing cold beverage, allow the brewed hojicha to cool completely, then serve it over a glass of ice with cold milk. You can also adjust the milk-to-tea ratio if you prefer a stronger roasted tea flavor.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this latte immediately while the foam is light and airy. It pairs wonderfully with a small piece of dark chocolate or a simple butter cookie. For a professional café look, use a fine mesh sieve to dust a small amount of extra hojicha powder over the foam just before serving.
Save Enjoy this comforting Hot Hojicha Latte as part of your daily ritual. Its earthy, mellow character makes it a versatile drink that fits any time of day, providing a moment of calm and warmth with every sip.
Recipe FAQs
- → What does hojicha taste like?
Hojicha has a distinctive roasted, nutty flavor with earthy notes and subtle caramel undertones. Unlike other green teas, it lacks bitterness and has a naturally smooth, mellow taste that pairs wonderfully with milk.
- → Can I make this latte without a bamboo whisk?
Absolutely! While a bamboo whisk (chasen) creates traditional froth, a regular small whisk or even a fork works well to dissolve the hojicha powder and create a smooth base. You can also use a handheld milk frother for both steps.
- → What milk works best for hojicha latte?
Dairy milk creates a rich, creamy latte, but oat milk, almond milk, and soy milk all pair beautifully with hojicha's roasted notes. Oat milk particularly mimics the creamy texture of dairy while complementing the tea's nutty profile.
- → Is hojicha different from matcha?
Yes, hojicha is made from roasted green tea leaves and stems, giving it a reddish-brown color and mellow flavor. Matcha uses shade-grown, ground green tea leaves resulting in a vibrant green color and more intense, grassy taste.
- → Can I make this iced?
Brew the hojicha concentrate as directed, then let it cool completely. Pour over ice and add cold milk instead of steamed. The iced version highlights the tea's refreshing qualities while maintaining its comforting roasted character.
- → How do I store hojicha powder?
Keep hojicha powder in an airtight container away from light, heat, and moisture. Properly stored, it maintains its flavor for 6-12 months. Avoid storing near spices or strong foods as the powder can absorb odors.