Genmaicha (玄米茶, “brown rice tea”) is the Japanese name for green tea combined with roasted brown rice.

It is sometimes referred to as “popcorn tea” because a few grains of the rice pop during the roasting process and resemble and taste like popcorn! This type of tea was originally drunk by poor Japanese, as the rice served as a filler and reduced the price of the tea; today it is drunk by all segments of society and is my favourite kind of japanese tea. Its flavor is mild and agreeable and combines the fresh grassy flavor of green tea with the nutty flavor of the rice. (Source: Wikipedia)

It is also my favorite green tea when I eat sushi (not the proper way of going about it, but my way). That is why I wanted to learn how to make it myself. Well, here goes. I originally got inspired from here.

Spread a thin layer of brown rice into a medium sized pan over medium heat. The thin layer will ensure even toasting of the rice grains.

Toast the rice until it takes on a dark brown color and emits a nut like and toasted aroma, approx. between five-ten minutes. Cool the rice on a plate. You can store the rice inside a container.

When you want to make yourself a “cuppa”, take one tablespoon of toasted brown rice together with your green tea. You can experiment with the amounts to make your perfect genmaicha.

Heat water, and add the tea once it is ready. Let it sit for 3-5 minutes.

Enjoy!