🍃 What is Matcha?

Matcha is a Japanese green tea that is shade-grown and processed like Tencha is stone-ground into a very fine powder. Unlike other teas, When you drink matcha you consume the whole leaf , not just an infusion.

That's why its contribution of antioxidants, chlorophyll and L-theanine is especially high.

Characteristics of matcha

• Intense and vibrant green color.
• Mild, sweet, and umami -rich vegetable flavor.
• Creamy and silky texture when prepared correctly.
• It provides sustained energy and mental focus .
• It contains more caffeine than many other green teas.

Matcha is ideal for those seeking clarity, vitality, and antioxidants , especially in the morning. or as an accompaniment to study or work routines.

🍂 What is Hojicha?

Hojicha is also a Japanese green tea, but with one key difference: It goes through a roasting process. Instead of focusing on shading and stone grinding, The focus is on that toasting which completely transforms its flavor, color and aroma.

Characteristics of the hojicha

• Warm, earthy brown color, the result of toasting.
• Toasted, mild, slightly sweet flavor with notes of caramel .
• Naturally very low in caffeine .
• Comforting aroma, perfect for moments of relaxation.
• Gentle on the stomach and considered digestive .

It is the perfect tea for afternoons, evenings or for those who prefer calm and balanced drinks.

🔍 Key differences between Matcha and Hojicha

Although they come from the same plant, Matcha and Hojicha differ at virtually every stage: cultivation, Preparation, flavor, color, and effect on the body. Let's look at the most important differences.

1. 🌱 Production process

Matcha:

• It is grown in the shade for several weeks before harvesting.
• The leaves undergo a brief steaming process to stop oxidation.
• The stems and veins are dried and removed, resulting in the tencha .
• The tencha is slowly ground in granite stone mills .

Hojicha:

• It does not require a specific shaded cultivation.
• The leaves (and sometimes branches) are toasted at high temperatures .
• It is traditionally consumed as an infusion , like a more classic tea.

In summary, matcha is more closely linked to fine grinding than to the whole leaf powder. while hojicha is defined by its aromatic toasting .

2. 🎨 Color and appearance

• Matcha: bright green, almost neon, with a very lively and fresh appearance.
• Hojicha: brown, reddish or chocolate tones, associated with toasting.

3. ☕ How to consume

One very clear difference is in how it gets to your cup:

• Matcha: it is beaten with water or milk until a homogeneous drink is formed (for example, a matcha latte). We ingest the tea powder , we don't strain it.
• Hojicha: It is prepared as an infusion , by letting the toasted leaves steep in hot water. and straining them afterwards. It can also be found in powder form for lattes, but it is most commonly found in leaf form.

4. 😋 Flavor and aroma

Matcha:

• Vegetarian, fresh and slightly sweet flavor.
• Umami notes reminiscent of soft seaweed or tender spinach.
• Creamy texture when well emulsified.

Hojicha:

• Warm, toasted notes reminiscent of caramel, nuts, or mild cocoa .
• Very smooth and round profile, without the intense vegetal touch of classic green tea.
• Comforting aroma, ideal for moments of calm.

5. ⚡ Caffeine content

Caffeine content is a key factor when choosing between Matcha and Hojicha.

• Matcha: contains caffeine in a similar amount to other high-quality green teas. The combination with L-theanine makes the energy more stable and prolonged , without such sharp spikes. like coffee.
• Hojicha: when roasted, its caffeine content decreases and it is usually considered It's a very low-caffeine tea. Many people drink it in the afternoon or evening without it interfering with sleep.

6. 💚 Health benefits

Matcha:

• Very rich in antioxidants (especially catechins).
• It provides gentle, sustained energy , ideal for concentration.
• It contributes to metabolism and can support an active lifestyle.
• The presence of L-theanine is associated with a feeling of calm and focus.

Hojicha:

• Gentle on the stomach, it is considered a digestive tea.
• Its low caffeine content makes it a relaxing option.
• It also contains antioxidants, although in smaller quantities than matcha.
• It's a good alternative for those who want to reduce caffeine without giving up tea.

🍵 Which to choose: Matcha or Hojicha?

It's not about which one is better, but about what you're looking for at any given time .

Choose Matcha if…

• You like the taste of green tea and its vegetal undertones.
• Are you looking for clean energy for the morning or to concentrate?
• Do you want a drink rich in antioxidants ?
• You are drawn to the ritual of preparing matcha with a whisk or in latte format.

Choose Hojicha if…

• You prefer toasted, mild, and comforting flavors.
• Are you looking for an afternoon or evening tea with low caffeine?
• Do you have a sensitive stomach or do you want something digestive?
• You want a different option from classic green tea, with a warmer profile.

💚 Matcha Colors: two Japanese jewels in your cup

At Matcha Colors we love both teas because they represent two complementary sides of Japanese tea:

• 💚 Japanese Matcha Premium : vibrant, creamy, full of green nuances and perfect for starting the day with energy.
• 🍂 Hojicha Premium : Toasted, warm and relaxing, ideal to accompany moments of calm, reading or after-dinner conversation.

Whether you've been a tea lover for years or are just discovering this world now, Exploring the difference between Matcha and Hojicha is a delicious way to travel to Japan through the cup .

We invite you to discover both in our online store and find your perfect combination. depending on the time of day, your energy and your mood.