Hojicha Cortado Roasted Japanese Tea

Savor the cozy warmth of a Hojicha Cortado, a Japanese-inspired twist on a classic coffee favorite. This aromatic beverage brings together the deep, earthy notes of roasted green tea with the silky smoothness of steamed milk, creating a perfectly balanced drink that is as soothing as it is delicious.

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The secret to a great Hojicha Cortado lies in the roasting process of the tea leaves, which removes bitterness and adds a distinct toasted aroma. When paired with creamy milk in an equal ratio, it creates a velvety texture that lingers on the palate.

Ingredients

• Tea: 2 teaspoons hojicha loose leaf tea (or 1 hojicha tea bag)
• Water: 120 ml (½ cup) water, just below boiling (about 90°C/195°F)
• Milk: 120 ml (½ cup) whole milk (or plant-based milk of choice)

Instructions

Step 1

Heat the water to just below boiling (about 90°C/195°F).

Step 2

Add hojicha tea leaves or tea bag to a teapot or infuser. Pour hot water over the tea and steep for 2–3 minutes. Strain or remove the tea bag.

Step 3

While the tea steeps, steam the milk until hot and frothy. If you dont have a steamer, gently heat milk on the stovetop and whisk until frothy.

Step 4

Pour the brewed hojicha into a heatproof cup (about 120 ml).

Step 5

Add the steamed milk in equal proportion (about 120 ml), holding back the foam with a spoon, then spoon the froth on top if desired.

Step 6

Serve immediately.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To ensure a perfect brew, use a kettle to reach the precise 90°C temperature and a tea infuser for easy straining. If you are using a saucepan and whisk for the milk, whisk vigorously to ensure a velvety foam that matches the tea's rich body. Remember that this recipe contains dairy, so choose your tools according to your dietary needs.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a dairy-free version, this drink works wonderfully with oat, soy, or almond milk. If you prefer a bit of sweetness, feel free to stir in some honey or simple syrup to complement the roasted notes of the tea. Always check your milk substitute for potential allergens if you have dietary restrictions.

Serviervorschläge

Serve your Hojicha Cortado in a small heatproof glass cup to showcase its silky texture and beautiful layers. For an extra aromatic touch, garnish the top with a light dusting of hojicha powder or a pinch of cinnamon before serving.

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With only 90 calories and a decent protein boost of 5g, this Hojicha Cortado is a guilt-free way to enjoy a sophisticated, cafe-quality beverage at home. It is a perfect choice for those seeking a smooth, silky drink that celebrates Japanese fusion flavors.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ What makes hojicha different from other green teas?

Hojicha is roasted over charcoal, giving it a deep, nutty flavor with caramel notes and lower caffeine content compared to other Japanese green teas. The roasting process transforms the vegetal notes into warm, toasty flavors that pair exceptionally well with milk.

→ Can I use hojicha tea bags instead of loose leaf?

Absolutely. Tea bags work well for convenience. Use one hojicha tea bag per serving and steep for 2-3 minutes in water just below boiling. Loose leaf typically offers more nuanced flavor, but bags still deliver that distinctive roasted taste.

→ What's the best milk alternative for a dairy-free version?

Oat milk is an excellent choice due to its natural creaminess and slight sweetness that complements the roasted tea. Soy milk also froths well and adds protein. Almond milk works but may be thinner—look for barista versions for better foam.

→ Why should the water be below boiling temperature?

Water around 90°C (195°F) prevents extracting bitter compounds from the tea leaves while still capturing the full roasted flavor. Boiling water can scorch the delicate hojicha leaves, so that slight temperature difference makes for a smoother, more balanced cup.

→ Is hojicha cortado suitable for evening drinking?

Yes, hojicha naturally contains less caffeine than other green teas due to the roasting process, making it a gentle choice for later in the day. The comforting warmth and creamy texture also make it an ideal after-dinner treat.