Tea type guide
Genmaicha, Japanese Tea with Roasted Rice
Short answer: genmaicha is tea blended with roasted rice. The base tea and preparation of the rice vary by product. Brown rice or a fixed ratio should not be presented as a universal definition.
Composition
The base tea may include bancha or sencha. Official descriptions and products show different ways of preparing the rice. The ingredient list for the exact product is therefore more reliable than a general rule.
A 50/50 ratio may describe one product. It is not the definition of the whole category.
Taste and preparation
Roasted rice generally contributes toasted or cereal-like notes. The result also depends on the base tea, roasting, dose and water.
Start with the producer’s instructions. If the cup is too intense, adjust time or temperature before judging the tea.
Caffeine
Genmaicha contains tea and is not caffeine-free. The amount depends on the base tea, tea-to-rice ratio, quantity used and brewing method. A precise value requires product data or analysis.
What to check before buying
- the tea used as a base;
- ingredient list;
- stated origin;
- brewing instructions;
- date and storage conditions.
Sources
Sources checked 13 July 2026.
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Last review
Page checked 13 July 2026.