Genmaicha Green Tea
If you’ve ever craved a tea that feels both grounding and refreshing, let us introduce you to one of my absolute favorites: Genmaicha. It’s a Japanese Green Tea blended with roasted brown rice…yes, rice! That mix of grassy green tea and toasty rice makes it taste like comfort food in a cup. Think cozy blanket, rainy day, and a moment of calm between the chaos. (Makes for a great milk tea!)
A Little History
Genmaicha has humble beginnings. It was once considered a “people’s tea” in Japan because the roasted rice stretched the precious green tea leaves, making it more affordable. Over time, it became a staple, not because it was cheap, but because it was delicious. What started as a necessity quickly became beloved for its taste, earning Genmaicha the nickname “the people’s tea.” That history gives Genmaicha a ground, everyday feel. It’s not fussy or fancy, just honest and soothing.
Flavor Profile
Genmaicha’s appeal comes from the balance of flavors you don’t often find in other teas:
Together, they create a brew that is hearty yet smooth, savory yet refreshing. Unlike delicate green teas that require perfect brewing precision, Genmaicha is forgiving and approachable—making it a favorite both for tea newcomers and seasoned sippers. Because the rice helps soften the grassy edge of the green tea, Genmaicha rarely becomes bitter. For a modern twist, try it as a Genmaicha latte: steep it a little stronger
Wellness Benefits
Like most green teas, Genmaicha is rich in antioxidants and offers gentle, steady energy without the jitters of coffee. Thanks to the roasted rice, it has: Lower caffeine content, making it perfect for afternoon or evening sipping. Since this tea is so soothing, it's mellow quality that can calm the stomach. Yes tea is hydrating, feel-good comfort, which makes it a great daily ritual. For those who want the health perks of green tea without the strong grassy punch, Genmaicha is the perfect middle ground.
Why We Love It
- The Flavor - It’s smooth, mellow, and toasty. Some people say the rice tastes like popcorn. (We enhance this in our blend by adding actual popped corn in the mix.)
- The Energy - Lower caffeine than most green teas, which means you can sip it in the evening without lying awake later.
- The Experience - It's simple. It’s cozy. It doesn’t ask for much and sometimes that’s exactly what we need.
Things to Keep in Mind
- If you like bold teas, this one might feel a little too light at first. It’s not going to smack you in the face like a strong black tea.
- If you’re caffeine sensitive, even though it’s lower, it’s not completely caffeine-free.
Genmaicha pairs beautifully with food, especially:
- Savory snacks like rice crackers, seaweed chips, or roasted nuts.
- Japanese cuisine—think sushi, tempura, or grilled fish.
- Sweet treats like mochi, shortbread, or nutty cookies, where the toasty rice notes create balance.
It’s a versatile tea that doesn’t compete with flavors, but rather enhances them.
How to Brew Genmaicha
Keep it simple:
- Heat your water but don’t let it boil. (Around 175-185°F if you want to be precise.)
- Use about a teaspoon of tea per cup.
- Steep 2-3 minutes.
- Sip, breathe, and let it do its thing.
Genmaicha is warm, familiar, and somehow makes everything feel a little softer. If you’ve never tried it, we really recommend giving it a shot. It’s not your average green tea and that’s the best part.
Try Genmaicha here and see if it becomes your new go-to comfort sip.
