Brewing Guide

A Simple Guide to Perfectly Steeping Hojicha & Other Japanese Roasted Teas

This guide will show you how to effortlessly make a cup that's smooth, balanced, and easy to enjoy, especially with your favorite roasted Japanese green teas like Hojicha, Genmaicha, and Bancha.

Essential Brewing Basics for Japanese Roasted Teas

Roasted teas are more forgiving than other Japanese green teas, so you don't have to stress about perfection. However, these basic guidelines will help you get started on the right foot for a consistently delicious cup:

  • Tea Amount: 5g (about 1–2 teaspoons)
    • Why: While 5g might seem like a lot for loose leaf tea, this amount ensures a rich, full flavor that can be steeped multiple times, unlocking new layers with each infusion.
  • Water: 200 ml (around 6.7 oz)
  • Temperature: 70–90°C (160–195°F)
    • Why: Roasted teas like Hojicha benefit from warmer water, which helps extract their rich, toasty, and comforting aromas. Use hotter water for a bolder, more robust brew, and cooler water if you prefer something mellow and sweet.
  • Time: 30–60 seconds
    • Why: A quick initial steep is all you need for these robust teas. It allows the leaves to unfurl and release their primary flavors without over-extracting.

Starting Your Brew Right

  • Start small: We recommend brewing one serving at a time. This is how these teas were traditionally meant to be enjoyed, allowing you to savor each moment.
  • Re-steep: Don't throw those leaves away! Most roasted teas can be brewed 2–3 times. Each subsequent steep can reveal new layers of flavor, making your tea experience even more economical and enjoyable. Try shorter steep times (15–30 seconds) and slightly hotter water for your second and third rounds.

Temperature Hacks & Adjusting Flavor

  • No thermometer? No problem. Don't let lack of gear stop you! Just bring your water to a boil, then let it sit for a minute (or pour it into another cup and back again) to cool slightly. You'll be in the right temperature range for Hojicha and other roasted teas.
  • Want more flavor? To intensify the taste, simply add a bit more tea leaves or use slightly less water.
  • Want it lighter? If you prefer a milder cup, use cooler water or steep for less time.

Steeping Guidelines for KINTÉ Teas

While every tea is unique, here are some recommended starting points for our popular roasted teas:

For Hojicha / Karigane / Genmaicha / Bancha
  • Tea: 5g
  • Water: 200ml
  • Temperature: 90°C (195°F)
  • Steep Time: 30–60 seconds
  • Re-steep: 2–3 times with slightly hotter water or shorter steep times.
For Premium Sencha or Aged Roasts
  • Tea: 5g
  • Water: 100–200ml
  • Temperature: Start at 60–70°C (140–160°F)
  • Steep Time: 1 minute
  • Re-steep: At 80°C for 15–45 seconds

Finding Your Perfect Cup: A Final Note

Every tea is different, and so is every palate. These guidelines are here to help you get started on your journey to brewing perfect Hojicha and other Japanese roasted teas, and don’t be afraid to experiment! The best way to find your truly perfect cup is to keep sipping, keep exploring, and let your taste buds be your guide.

Ready to start brewing your perfect cup? Explore our selection of premium Japanese roasted teas and begin your tea journey today.

Shop Our Roasted Teas →