These Japanese teas are quickly becoming popular among Gen-Z

When it comes to cultural influences from Asia, particularly Japan, the food scene has significantly impacted India as a whole. Japanese cheesecakes, sushi, and ramen, have already captured the hearts of many. Now, Japanese teas are adding a new layer to this trend, bringing a blend of flavour, health, and wellness.

Matcha has already left its mark among young adults, but there’s a whole world of Japanese teas, or 'cha' waiting to be explored, each one offering a unique flavour and distinct health benefits. So if you're a tea lover, here are five Japanese teas you’ll want to stock your shelves with.

Sencha

Sencha is the most widely consumed tea in Japan. Unlike Matcha, which is grown throughout the summer, Sencha is cultivated and processed differently, which gives it that lighter flavour. The leaves are steamed to halt oxidation, then rolled and dried to preserve their flavour. This meticulous process results in a tea that balances sweetness with a subtle bitterness, offering a refreshing taste.

Hojicha

Hojicha is made by roasting tea leaves and stems in a clay pot over a fire, giving it a distinct nutty and earthy flavour. This roasting process reduces tannins, resulting in a rich, caramel-like taste. Hojicha’s savoury notes pair beautifully with buttery treats like shortbread or pound cake, and its flavour also complements the natural sweetness of milk, making it a truly delicious drink.

Gyokuro

If "luxury in a cup" had a name, it would be Gyokuro. Unlike most teas that thrive in sunlight, Gyokuro is cultivated in the shade, which slows its growth and intensifies its flavour. To truly appreciate Gyokuro, steep 7-8 grams of the tea in water heated to about 40°C to 50°C for 90 seconds. This gentle method draws out a rich umami flavour while preserving the tea’s subtle, delicate notes. Brewing at higher temperatures, however, yields a cleaner, more traditional green tea profile.

Mugicha

This is your ideal summer iced drink. Mugicha, made from roasted barley, is packed with that distinct nuttiness and earthiness that many roasted teas are known for. It is a refined taste and offers a wide range of benefits such as improved skin health and excellent digestion. Pair it with a few ice cubes on a hot and humid day, and you have a remedy for dehydration.

Kobucha

Not to be confused with Kombucha, which has Chinese origins, Kobucha is a Japanese tea made with kelp, an edible seaweed. It is known for its unique umami flavour and health benefits. With its savoury, salty, broth-like taste, it makes for a perfect evening drink and can be enjoyed both before and after dinner.

Lead image credits: Pexels

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