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Matcha Genmaicha, also known as Matcha Iri Genmaicha, is a unique blend that marries three key components: Sencha green tea, roasted brown rice (genmai), and Matcha powder. Often referred to as "popcorn tea" due to the appearance of puffed rice grains, Genmaicha has been a staple in Japanese tea culture for centuries. Originally considered a "people's tea" because the addition of rice made it more affordable, it has since evolved into a beloved blend known for its distinct flavor and soothing qualities.
The addition of Matcha to Genmaicha is a relatively modern innovation, reflecting the evolving tastes within Japanese tea culture. The Matcha, finely ground from high-quality green tea leaves, coats the tea leaves and rice, giving the blend a vibrant green color and a slightly more intense flavor. This combination enhances the traditional Genmaicha, adding a creamy mouthfeel and a richer, more vibrant flavor profile.
Genmaicha, often referred to as brown rice tea (genmai translates to brown rice in Japanese), has its origins deeply embedded in the practices of Zen Buddhism in Japan. Buddhist monks are credited with being among the first to create and popularize this unique blend. The monks, particularly those in Zen monasteries, lived under strict dietary guidelines and austere conditions, where simplicity and frugality were paramount. Leftover roasted rice, a staple food, was often combined with green tea to create Genmaicha—a filling and warming beverage that sustained them during long periods of meditation and fasting.
The creation of Genmaicha by Buddhist monks aligns with their core values of mindfulness, frugality, and the avoidance of waste. By blending roasted brown rice with green tea, they crafted a nourishing drink that was not only economical but also embodied the principles of simplicity and resourcefulness central to Buddhist monastic life.
Over time, the practice of mixing brown rice with tea spread beyond the monastic communities and into the broader Japanese culture. Initially developed to stretch limited tea supplies, Genmaicha quickly gained popularity for its unique taste and aromatic profile. It became a staple among the general population, appreciated for its affordability, nutritional value, and comforting qualities.
Today, Genmaicha is enjoyed worldwide for its distinctive flavor, which marries the fresh, slightly vegetal taste of green tea with the toasty, nutty notes of roasted rice. Our Genmaicha is sourced from Shizuoka, one of Japan's most renowned tea-growing regions, known for its fertile volcanic soil, temperate climate, and meticulous tea cultivation practices. The green tea leaves used in our blend are sencha, providing a fresh base that complements the roasted rice, creating a tea that is both flavorful and refreshing.
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The folklore surrounding Genmaicha is as captivating as the tea itself, deeply rooted in Japanese culture and history. According to legend, the creation of Genmaicha dates back to the 15th century during Japan's Sengoku period, a time of great conflict and upheaval. The story centers around a humble servant named Genmai, who served a powerful samurai lord.
One day, while preparing tea for his master, Genmai accidentally spilled some roasted brown rice into the tea. In an era where such mistakes were considered unforgivable, the samurai, in a fit of rage, drew his sword and killed Genmai on the spot. However, when the samurai tasted the tea, he discovered that the roasted rice imparted a unique, nutty flavor that perfectly balanced the bitterness of the green tea.
Struck by the unexpected harmony of flavors and perhaps by remorse, the samurai decided to honor the fallen servant by naming the tea Genmaicha after Genmai.
This story has become a cherished part of the tea's history, symbolizing the blend of simplicity and depth that defines Genmaicha. The tea continues to be enjoyed today, carrying with it the legacy of Genmai and the tradition of honoring even the simplest contributions to Japanese culture.
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Rich in Antioxidants: Combines the health benefits of Matcha and green tea, providing a high concentration of catechins and other antioxidants that help fight free radicals.
Energy and Focus: Contains L-theanine and caffeine, offering a gentle energy boost while promoting relaxation and mental clarity.
Digestive Aid: The roasted rice adds a soothing quality that can aid digestion and provide a calming effect.
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Preparation Method
Tradtional Preparation:
Use 3-4 grams of tea per 6-8oz of 158-176°F (70-80°C) using a teapot, kyusu or infuser mug
Steep for 1-2 minutes
Good for multiple steeps
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Cold Steeping
Method: Cold steeping involves combining tea and cold water, allowing it to steep over an extended period. This method is ideal for green teas, white teas, lightly to moderately oxidized oolong teas, and some botanicals.
Instructions:
Measure:
Use 1 gram of tea per 2 ounces of cold, filtered water.
Combine:
Place the tea leaves in a vessel.
Add the cold, filtered water based on the ratio.
Steep:
Refrigerate and steep for 4 to 24 hours.
Use less tea for longer steep times to avoid over-extraction.
Strain and Serve:
Strain the tea leaves.
Serve the cold-steeped tea over ice or as is.
Enjoy:
Relish the refreshing and flavorful cold-steeped tea, perfect for any time of the day.
Ice Steeping (Kouridashi)
Method: Ice steeping, also known as Kouridashi, is a Japanese technique where tea is steeped over ice, allowing the flavors to extract slowly as the ice melts. This method produces a concentrated flavor without bitterness or astringency.
Instructions:
Measure:
Use 1 gram of tea per 1 ounce of ice.
Prepare:
Place the measured tea leaves in a vessel.
Add the appropriate amount of ice.
Steep:
Allow the ice to melt naturally at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
Serve:
Once the ice has melted completely, strain the tea leaves.
Serve the concentrated tea as is, or over more ice if desired.
Enjoy:
Savor the rich and nuanced flavors of your ice-steeped tea, perfect for a refreshing drink.