Genmaicha

Genmaicha (玄米茶, Genmaicha? "brown rice tea") is the Japanese name for green tea combined with roasted brown rice. It is sometimes referred to colloquially as "popcorn tea" because a few grains of the rice pop during the roasting process and resemble 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. Tea steeped from these tea leaves has a light yellow hue. Its flavor is mild and agreeable and combines the fresh grassy flavor of green tea with the aroma of the roasted rice. The water to steep this tea should be about 80-85°C (175-185°F). A steeping time of 3-5 minutes is recommended, depending on desired strength. Tea tins are priced separately @ $3.00 each and may be ordered in the Teaware section of the shopping cart.