Houjicha

Houjicha—directly translated in Japanese to ‘roasted tea’—is a type of green tea recognized for its smoky, nutty flavor profile and light-to-dark brown appearance. Both unique qualities are the result of a similarly distinctive preparation process: Tea leaves and twigs are slow-roasted in a porcelain pot over a charcoal flame before being ground into powder. The roasting process gives houjicha its signature aroma and appearance, while reducing its caffeine content, making it a mild alternative to other green teas.