Save Embrace the comforting warmth of a Hot Hojicha Latte, a unique Japanese beverage that trades the vibrant grassiness of green tea for deep, roasted notes. This aromatic drink features finely ground hojicha powder, which offers a naturally sweet, caramel-like flavor and a soothing smoky undertone. Whether you are seeking a caffeine-conscious afternoon treat or a cozy companion for a chilly morning, this creamy latte is a delightful departure from the ordinary.
Save The beauty of the Hot Hojicha Latte lies in its simplicity and the way the toasted tea leaves harmonize with creamy milk. By whisking the powder into a frothy base and topping it with steamed milk, you create a beverage that is as visually pleasing as it is delicious. It is a vegetarian-friendly treat that invites you to slow down and savor every smoky, sweet sip.
Ingredients
- Tea: 2 teaspoons hojicha powder (roasted green tea powder) and 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 (optional): 1–2 teaspoons honey, maple syrup, or sugar (to taste).
Instructions
- Step 1: Sift
- In a small bowl, sift the hojicha powder to remove lumps.
- Step 2: Whisk the Tea
- Add hot water to the hojicha powder and whisk until fully dissolved and frothy, using a bamboo whisk (chasen) or a small regular whisk.
- Step 3: Prepare the Milk
- In a saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until steaming but not boiling. Froth the milk with a milk frother or whisk until creamy.
- Step 4: Combine
- Pour the dissolved hojicha into two mugs.
- Step 5: Sweeten
- Add sweetener to each mug, if using, and stir to combine.
- Step 6: Assemble
- Gently pour the steamed milk over the tea base, holding back the foam with a spoon, then spoon the foam on top.
- Step 7: Serve
- Serve immediately, optionally garnished with a sprinkle of hojicha powder.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To get the best texture, use a fine mesh sieve for the powder and a traditional bamboo whisk if available. Regarding allergens, this recipe contains dairy if using cow's milk; for plant-based alternatives, ensure you check for nut or soy content. Hojicha is generally gluten-free, but always verify packaging for cross-contamination.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a vegan version, use oat, soy, or almond milk combined with a plant-based sweetener like maple syrup. If you prefer a cold refreshment, you can create an iced version by letting the brewed hojicha cool before serving it over ice with cold milk. You can also adjust the sweetness and milk-to-tea ratio to suit your preference.
Serviervorschläge
Enjoy your Hot Hojicha Latte immediately while the milk foam is thick and velvety. For an extra touch of elegance, garnish the top with a light dusting of hojicha powder or serve it alongside a buttery croissant for a perfect afternoon pairing.
Save With its earthy aroma and silky finish, this Hot Hojicha Latte is the ultimate way to bring a piece of Japanese tea culture into your home. Each serving contains approximately 90 calories and 4g of protein when prepared with 2% dairy milk and honey, providing a light yet satisfying treat. Take a moment for yourself, breathe in the roasted scent, and enjoy the calm that comes with every cup.
Recipe Questions
- → What does hojicha taste like?
Hojicha features a distinctive roasted, nutty flavor with earthy undertones and natural sweetness. Unlike other green teas, it has lower caffeine and a toasty profile reminiscent of caramelized cocoa.
- → Can I make this latte without a frother?
Absolutely. While a milk frother creates the creamiest texture, you can achieve similar results by vigorously whisking heated milk in a saucepan or shaking it in a sealed jar until frothy.
- → Is hojicha different from matcha?
Yes, hojicha is roasted green tea leaves resulting in a reddish-brown brew with mellow flavors, while matcha is ground shade-grown green tea leaves with vibrant green color and grassy notes.
- → What milk works best for hojicha latte?
Whole dairy milk creates the creamiest traditional version, but oat milk offers excellent frothing capabilities and neutral flavor. Almond and soy milk also pair beautifully with hojicha's roasted notes.
- → Can I prepare hojicha latte in advance?
Prepare the hojicha concentrate ahead and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat and froth fresh milk for the best texture and flavor experience.
- → What's the ideal water temperature for brewing hojicha?
Water around 175°F (80°C) works perfectly—hot enough to extract flavors but not boiling, which could scorch the delicate roasted tea leaves and create bitterness.