Genmaicha tea: Everything you need to know about this Japanese tea with toasted rice

Bienfaits / Effets sur la Santé

Visit the matcha tea shop

Genmaicha tea is a unique tea from Japan that combines green tea and roasted rice. Its smooth, slightly toasted flavor makes it an ideal drink for your breaks or as an alternative to your morning coffee. If you're searching for wellbeing, vitality, and pleasure, join me in discovering the world of Japanese genmaicha tea, its varieties, its benefits, and the best way to prepare it.

What is genmaicha tea? Origin and history

Genmaicha Japanese tea is green tea with roasted brown or white rice added. It was originally consumed by modest Japanese people: the rice diluted the green tea while creating a flavoursome and comforting drink.

Today, genmaicha tea is appreciated for its smooth, toasted flavour and its many health benefits.

The different varieties of genmaicha tea

You can find several types of Japanese genmaicha tea, depending on the green tea and the proportion of rice:

  • Classic genmaicha: bancha green tea + roasted rice

  • Premium genmaicha: sencha green tea + puffed rice grains

  • Organic genmaicha: green tea from organic farming

  • Flavoured genmaicha: with notes of matcha or flowers

Discovering these varieties allows you to find the genmaicha that suits your tastes. Enthusiasts confirm that genmaicha is smooth, comforting, and easy to drink at any time of day.

Close-up of genmaicha tea, a blend of green tea leaves and roasted rice

How to choose a good genmaicha tea?

To choose a high-quality Japanese genmaicha tea, here are some points to consider:

  • Green tea quality: favor sencha or premium grade bancha

  • Appearance of rice grains: they must be golden brown and not burnt.

  • Origin: authentic Japanese tea guarantees a balanced taste

  • Type of rice: puffed or toasted, depending on your preferences

Health benefits of genmaicha tea

Genmaicha tea is not only delicious, it is also good for your health:

  • Rich in antioxidants: protects cells and supports vitality

  • Relaxing effect: L-theanine helps reduce stress and promotes focus.

  • Easy to digest: roasted rice softens the effect of green tea on the stomach.

  • Alternative to coffee: provides a smooth and lasting energy boost, without jitters

Infographic on the benefits of matcha as an alternative to coffee

How to prepare the perfect genmaicha tea?

To fully enjoy Japanese genmaicha tea, you can use loose leaves or pouches, depending on your preferences:

  1. Heat the water to 80°C (avoid boiling water to preserve the aromas).

  2. Use 1 teaspoon of genmaicha leaves per 200 ml of water, or a pouch if you prefer convenience.

  3. Steep for 2 to 3 minutes.

  4. Enjoy it on its own or with dried fruit for a flavoursome treat.

Tip: genmaicha can be re-steeped once to fully enjoy its flavours throughout the day.

Comparison: genmaicha tea and other green teas

To better understand the place of genmaicha tea among Japanese teas, I have prepared a comparative table that highlights their flavours, caffeine content, benefits, and average price.

Type of tea Taste Caffeine Health benefits Average price/100g
Genmaicha Smooth, toasted Low Antioxidant, relaxation $10-15
Sencha Fresh, plant-based Medium Antioxidant, energy 15-20€
Matcha Intense, umami High Antioxidant, focus, boost $25-40
Bancha Light, herbaceous Low Digestion, general wellbeing $8-12

This comparison allows you to choose the green tea that best suits your needs, according to your palate and lifestyle. Matcha tea, in addition to its intense umami taste, is also recognised for its central role in Japanese tea ceremonies and its unique detoxifying properties.

Infographic on matcha antioxidants

Japanese genmaicha tea is a unique beverage that combines the freshness of green tea with the sweetness of roasted rice. Rich in benefits, low in caffeine, and easy to incorporate into your daily routine, it is an ideal alternative to coffee or more intense green teas.


FAQ: everything you need to know about genmaicha tea

When to drink genmaicha?

You can enjoy genmaicha tea at any time of day: in the morning for a smooth boost, in the afternoon for a comforting break, or in the evening for a moment of relaxation thanks to its low level of caffeine.

Is genmaicha tea effective for weight loss?

Genmaicha contains antioxidants and a small amount of caffeine, which can help to slightly stimulate the metabolism. Although it is not a miracle product, it fits perfectly into a healthy and balanced lifestyle.

Is genmaicha tea good for digestion?

Yes, genmaicha tea is recognised as being smooth on the stomach. The roasted rice softens the action of the green tea, making it a pleasant drink after a meal or to soothe the digestive system.

How should genmaicha tea be stored?

To preserve the freshness and aroma of your Japanese genmaicha tea, store it in an airtight container, away from light, air, and moisture. Proper storage will maintain its quality for several months.


Japanese genmaicha tea appeals with its unique taste, benefits, and low level of caffeine, perfect for moments of relaxation throughout the day. But if you want to take your Japanese tea experience even further, I invite you to discover now organic premium matcha.

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