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Tea Series Six (B): Houjicha Latte — Hot & Iced

Houjicha Latte (photo by JenniferW)


The rich, roasted aroma of Houjicha takes on a new form when blended with milk. It’s soft, earthy, and deliciously smooth. Unlike matcha, Houjicha is low in caffeine, making it a comforting choice for both day and evening.

Things You’ll Need

  • Matcha bowl

  • Matcha spoon

  • Whisk

  • Sifter

  • Tea cup

  • Timer

  • Handheld milk frother

  • Heatproof measuring jug (glass is ideal)

  • An electric kettle with temperature control

Tip: A temperature-controlled kettle is helpful for precise brewing. Different teas reveal their best flavours at different temperatures.

Ingredients

  • 1g Houjicha Latte Powder (use 2 g for a stronger taste)

  • 25 ml water at 80°C

  • 100 ml milk (e.g. Rokeby FitMilk, lactose-free low-fat milk)

Tip: The ratio is roughly 1 part water : 3 parts milk. For a deeper roasted flavour, either reduce the milk slightly and replace with water, or add an extra gram of houjicha powder.


Hot Houjicha Latte (photo by JenniferW)

🔥 Hot Houjicha Latte

Step-by-Step

  1. Heat the water to 80°C.

  2. Sift the powder: Place the sifter above the matcha bowl and scoop 1-2 g of Houjicha Latte Powder using a matcha spoon. Tap gently to sift (this helps prevent clumps).

  3. Whisk: Pour 25ml of 80°C hot water into the matcha bowl. Whisk briskly in a “Z” motion until smooth and evenly mixed.

    Optional: For a touch of sweetness, drizzle a little honey over your latte.

  4. Warm the milk: Pour 100ml of cold milk into a heatproof glass jug and place it in a pot of 60-68°C hot water. Warm gently.

  5. Froth the milk: 

    1. Use a handheld milk frother to create a light foam.

    2. If you don’t have one, you can pour the mixture warm milk into a sealed jar or shaker, shake well, then tap lightly on the table to remove large bubbles.

    3. If you own an espresso machine, you may froth it with the steam wand instead.

  6. Combine: Pour the whisked Houjicha mixture into your service cup. Gently pour the frothy milk over it.

  7. Optional: Lightly dust a little Houjicha Latte powder on top for aroma and gentle roasted touch.

The result is a mellow, aromatic latte with toasted caramel notes and a creamy finish.


Iced Houjicha Latte (photo by JenniferW)

❄️ Iced Houjicha Latte

Ingredients

  • 2g Houjicha Latte Powder

  • 40 ml water at 80°C

  • 160 ml milk (e.g. Rokeby FitMilk, lactose-free low-fat milk)

  • 2-3 ice cubes

Easy and Refreshing 

  1. In your matcha bowl, sift 2 g Houjicha Latte Powder.

  2. Add 40 ml of 80°C hot water and whisk until smooth.

    Optional: For a touch of sweetness, drizzle a little honey over your latte.

  3. Pour the mixture into a glass filled with ice cubes.

  4. Add 100 ml cold milk and stir gently to combine.

  5. Use a handheld milk frother to create a light foam with the remaining 60ml of cold milk. Gently pour the light foam milk over it.

  6. Finish with a light dusting of Houjicha Latte powder on top for fragrance and a simple roasted touch.

Optional: After pouring the light foam milk, add a scoop of ice cream then finish with a light dusting of Houjicha Latte powder on top.

This version is cooling, lightly smoky, and refreshing. It’s perfect for warm days.


Iced Houjicha Latte with ice cream (photo by JenniferW)

Reflection 

A Houjicha Latte carries the same calmness as its leaf-brewed form, yet adds a layer of quiet indulgence. Each sip feels like a soft pause, a gentle warmth that soothes without rush. Whether you enjoy it hot or iced, may it remind you that even simple, familiar things can take on new beauty when approached with care.

Two ways to enjoy the same tea — 
one clear and light, the other creamy and deep. 
Houjicha reminds me that comfort can be 
simple, and calm can be found in small things.

🎥 Tea Series Six (B): Houjicha Latte — Hot & Iced (YouTube)


💌 Enjoyed this recipe?

You can find more comforting recipes and reflections on A Journey with Joy at Substack. Subscribing is free, and you are always welcome.


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