Genmaicha tea, a green tea from Japan with multiple benefits
The genmaicha tea is a green teasencha type or bancha green tea – two varieties of tea very popular in Japan, their country of origin – to which grains of rice, preferably brown, have been added (for its nutritional qualities superior to white rice). In most recipes, it is a mixture of toasted rice grains and puffed rice grains, the latter of which may sometimes have slightly burst, which has earned genmaicha the gourmet nickname “popcorn tea”!
Why a sencha or bancha tea base? Quite simply because the Japanese only grow green tea! And Sencha and Bancha are among the most consumed teas in Japan. It is this green tea base that helps give Genmaicha tea good health benefits.
What does Genmaicha tea taste like?
Known for its unique taste, Once infused, the genmaicha tea takes on a characteristic pale yellow color. It exudes very sweet aromas, the grains of rice balancing the slight astringency that the green tea alone. Many people find it has notes close to those of hazelnut and a delicately sweet taste, coming from the delicate caramelization of the puffed rice. Green tea gives it a very fresh scent. Its taste is therefore warm and reminiscent of coffee due to the roasting of the rice grains.
Origin of Genmaicha tea: The legend of this green tea tells…
There are two opposing versions of the history ofgenmaicha tea, but whatever the reality, they are both exciting to discover! The oldest tells that the genmaicha tea is said to have been invented by chance several centuries ago by the servant of a samurai. He used to drink a cup of tea before the fight. One day, his servant accidentally dropped some rice in it before bringing it to him. Mad with rage, the samurai punished the poor man, who answered to the name of Genmai, by cutting off his head. Then he nevertheless tasted the tea, which he found absolutely delicious. He then named this new recipe “genmai cha”, Genmai tea, in honor of his servant.
Another story suggests that the invention of genmaicha tea would be much more recent and would only date back to the 1920s. It would be the work of a Japanese merchant from Kyoto who, on the occasion of the New Year, would have added pieces of rice cake – a traditional pastry of this time of year – to the tea he was selling, in order to enrich it. His new recipe then met with great success, it would have become popular and widespread. First among the least well-off people (rice being cheaper than tea), then among all strata of society. Note that literally, in Japanese, genmaicha means “brown rice tea”.
The benefits of Genmaicha tea
Composed of green tea and rice, Genmaicha tea is said to have beneficial properties for health. Starting with its positive action on digestion, the immune system or its antioxidant and detoxifying properties due to the presence of polyphenols. It would therefore help fight against damage caused by free radicals and cellular aging. It would also be rich in minerals such as copper, zinc, manganese, selenium, phosphorus, magnesium and vitamins. Just like other green teas, it would facilitate elimination and improve blood circulation.
Furthermore, its low caffeine/theine content makes it suitable for consumption in the evening and represents a good alternative for people looking to reduce their caffeine consumption. The presence of theanine makes it a relaxing anti-stress drink.
Do you want to explore the subject further? Kusmi tells you more about the virtues of green tea.
For more benefits and flavors, we opt for organic Genmaicha
The organic label guarantees superior quality due to the numerous quality controls that are carried out during the production and development of the product. An organic Genmaicha tea will therefore be more qualitative than a classic tea.
Some Genmaicha teas are even fortified with matcha, a ground green tea powder with a unique taste. A very interesting mix in terms of taste!
How to properly prepare Genmaicha tea?
To enjoy quality Genmaicha tea, Kusmi recommends heating your water to a temperature of 80°C. This will avoid any bitterness during tasting. Then let your tea (bag or loose) steep for a maximum of 3 minutes. During preparation, do not boil the water as this risks losing the benefits of the tea and altering its taste. Another advantage, the genmaicha tea is absolutely delicious in an iced version. A bargain as summer approaches! As a reminder, find below the advice of Kusmi Tea to prepare an excellent iced tea. Happy tasting!
How to make green tea frozen?
- Step #1 - Pour 60 cl of pure simmering water into your carafe.
- Step #2 - Infuse a large sachet of your frozen mixture for 7 minutes.
- Step #3 - Let the preparation rest for 30 minutes.
How to drink Genmaicha tea?
Good news: the genmaicha tea generally being composed of 50% of green tea and 50% rice grains, it is naturally low in theine, which allows it to be consumed at any time of the day. Because it contains cereals, it is particularly appreciated for breakfast, as well as to accompany a meal or even to end it, like a dessert. It is also common to add a small dose of matcha, this bright green tea powder which is gaining more and more fans.
Our opinion on Genmaicha tea
Would you like to have our opinion? We love it so don't hesitate to taste this tea which enjoys an excellent reputation in Japan and which has many benefits. Low in caffeine, it can be consumed at any time of the day: in the morning, after a meal or in the evening. Good for digestion, rich in vitamins and minerals and full of antioxidants (polyphenols), its virtues are no longer in doubt. Its unique, gourmet and comforting taste will perhaps find a special place in your heart. At Kusmi, we are fans of this little toasted taste that is so surprising in a cup of tea.