Is hojicha the new matcha?
Is hojicha really the new matcha? Does it taste better or worse? Some even say it smells like fish. Others call it coffee's gentler cousin. This Japanese tea has certainly stirred curiosity and managed to win over many palates.
Zafir Syed, a food content creator who has been a matcha drinker since 2019, recently tasted hojicha. 'I was curious to try it out for a very long time. Its taste is nutty...roasted.' Zafir, who did like the taste of hojicha, adds, 'It was as if I was having coffee, and I also found its effect on my mood quite similar. Whether or not I will drink hojicha depends on my mood. If I want something warm and comforting, I will most likely opt for hojicha over matcha.'
HOW IT TASTES
A Japanese tea, hojicha, is made from roasted green tea leaves, which gives it a warm brown hue and toasty aroma. It is mostly described as nutty, caramelly, smoky and toasty.
The flavour profile is roasted, making it more familiar to the Indian palate. Since we're accustomed to drinking beverages like black tea and coffee, both of which have roasted notes, this taste is likely to feel more approachable and comforting to Indians
Binny Varghese, beverage consultant of a Japanese cafe
Those who find matcha too intense enjoy hojicha for its mellow, comforting flavour. Whether it tastes better comes down to personal preference. Hojicha is gentler on the palate and often surprises first-time drinkers with how easy it is to enjoy
Ish Patil, founder of a contemporary Japanese gastrobar
WILL IT REPLACE MATCHA?
Those who have had enough sips of matcha and hojicha have taken to social media to share how hojicha tastes better than matcha and is more calming. So, though the matcha wave is still going strong, hojicha, too, is slowly making a place for itself in the market.
Speaking about India, Ish Patil, founder of a contemporary Japanese gastrobar in Mumbai, says, 'Hojicha is catching on as a sensory and culinary experience, offering comforting, mindful moments in the day. It's not trying to replace matcha, but to offer something different.'
Matcha will continue to enjoy the spotlight, thanks to its strong aesthetic appeal— a major driver of its popularity. But hojicha, with its earthy tones and dramatic, satisfying swirls, is not far behind.
As one Reddit user put it, 'The ritual of making hojicha and watching the colour gradient swirl over hot milk is quite relaxing.' Additionally, hojicha also fits seamlessly into today's wellness culture that is currently in style.
HOJICHA HEALTH BENEFITS
It is low in caffeine (7–15 mg per cup). 2-3 cups per day is generally safe
It is rich in antioxidants, supports immunity and cellular health
May help soothe the stomach
Hojicha contains L-theanine, which promotes calmness, focus and reduces stress
Individuals who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have specific health conditions should consult a healthcare professional
(As told by Payal Sharma, senior dietician)
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