What is Genmaicha made of?

Genmaicha is a Japanese loose-leaf green tea blended with roasted mochi rice. The roasted rice gives the tea its nutty, toasty flavor and golden infusion.

Does Genmaicha have caffeine?

Yes, but much less than many other green teas. A typical cup contains about 15–30 mg of caffeine, making it suitable even in the evening.

What does Genmaicha taste like?

Genmaicha has a smooth golden cup with toasted rice notes, mild sweetness, grassy green tea balance, and very low bitterness.

How do you brew Genmaicha?

Use 4–5 g of loose-leaf Genmaicha per 120–150 ml of water at 80–90 °C. Steep for 30–60 seconds. The leaves can be re-brewed up to two times.

Can I drink Genmaicha every day?

Yes. Genmaicha is considered an everyday tea in Japan. Its lower caffeine and mild flavor make it easy to enjoy daily.

Japanese Genmaicha Green Tea — Loose Leaf with Roasted Mochi Rice

What is Genmaicha?

Genmaicha (玄米茶) is a traditional Japanese tea made from loose-leaf green tea (usually Sencha or Bancha) blended with roasted mochi rice. During roasting, the rice releases a warm, nutty aroma, and some grains pop like small pieces of popcorn. When combined with the fresh, green notes of the tea leaves, it creates a golden infusion that feels both comforting and refreshing.

Often called “everyday tea” in Japan, Genmaicha is loved for its gentle sweetness, smooth flavor, and naturally lower caffeine content compared to most other green teas - a perfect balance of warmth and clarity in a single cup.

Health Benefits of Genmaicha

Genmaicha combines the natural benefits of green tea with the soothing qualities of roasted rice, creating a tea that supports balance and calm in daily life.

Lower caffeine – gentle on the body and suitable for sensitive tea drinkers. A cup of Genmaicha usually contains much less caffeine than Sencha or Matcha, which makes it easy to enjoy throughout the day.
Rich in antioxidants – green tea leaves provide catechins that help protect the body from oxidative stress and support natural balance and vitality.
Calm focus – L-theanine, an amino acid naturally present in green tea, promotes a state of relaxed alertness and helps maintain focus without overstimulation.
Digestive comfort – the roasted mochi rice softens the flavor and makes the tea easy on the stomach, often enjoyed after meals for its soothing character.
Steady energy and hydration – the gentle combination of amino acids and mild caffeine offers calm energy without spikes or crashes, keeping the body hydrated and clear-headed.
Naturally smooth and alkaline – Genmaicha tends to be less acidic than many teas or coffee, making it a good option for regular, mindful tea breaks.
Mineral support – both the tea leaves and roasted rice provide trace minerals such as potassium and magnesium, contributing to a sense of balance and well-being.

Genmaicha Caffeine Level

On average, a cup of Genmaicha contains 15-30 mg of caffeine, depending on the ratio of tea leaves to roasted rice and brewing time. This is significantly lower than many other Japanese green teas, making Genmaicha suitable for:

Morning - when you want a gentle start.

Afternoon - as a mindful daytime break.

Evening - a calming cup without overstimulation.

How to Choose Quality Genmaicha

Tea leaves should be fresh, bright, and balanced with roasted rice.
Mochi rice should be evenly roasted - golden to dark brown, with some popped grains.
Aroma should feel warm and nutty, not burnt.
Brew color should be golden, not too dark or dull.

Genmaicha Flavor Profile

Genmaicha brews into a soft golden infusion with a calm, toasty aroma. The first scent is warm - roasted mochi rice, hints of popcorn, and the gentle sweetness of baked oats. As you sip, the smooth green tea base unfolds, bringing freshness and a touch of umami that lingers softly on the palate.

The flavor is mild and comforting, never bitter. A quiet balance of nutty warmth and green clarity.

How to Brew Genmaicha

Use warm water at 80-90°C. Boiling water may cause bitterness.
Add 4-5 g (2-3 tsp) of loose-leaf Genmaicha per 120-150 ml water.
Steep for 30-60 seconds - longer steeping brings out stronger flavor.
Leaves can be re-brewed up to 2 times.
Enjoy hot, or brew over ice for a refreshing summer version.

Try Japanese Genmaicha Green Tea

Nutty, sweet, and balanced - Genmaicha is a tea that feels both familiar and unique. A daily classic in Japan, it’s perfect for calm mornings, mindful afternoons, or evenings when you want a light cup.

Try Japanese Genmaicha Green Tea

*All Estradora teas and related products are food products intended for general consumption. They are not medicines or medical supplements. Any references to potential benefits relate to traditional use or general information and are not medical claims. Products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consume as part of a varied, balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication, or have a medical condition, consult your doctor or qualified healthcare professional before use.

Japanese Genmaicha Green Tea - Loose Leaf with Roasted Mochi Rice