There is something quietly satisfying about discovering a drink that feels both indulgent and calming. Recently, I enjoyed a simple yet memorable hojicha preparation that has quickly become an evening favourite—refreshing, lightly sweet, and naturally low in caffeine.
Hojicha, unlike traditional green teas, is roasted rather than steamed. This roasting process gives it a smooth, gently nutty character with minimal bitterness and significantly reduced caffeine, making it ideal for later in the day.
The Recipe: Sparkling Hojicha with Honey & Lemon
This drink is easy to prepare and feels elevated enough to serve guests—or simply enjoy as a personal ritual.
Ingredients
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2.5 grams of Hallnara Hojicha
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10 grams of honey
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5 grams of fresh lemon juice
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Sparkling water
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Ice (optional)
Method
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In a small bowl or cup, blend the honey and lemon juice until fully combined.
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Pour the honey-lemon mixture into a glass.
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Add ice if desired, then top up with sparkling water.
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Slowly pour the brewed hojicha over the drink and allow it to settle naturally.
As the hojicha meets the sparkling water, the pour creates a soft gradient—and in this case, almost formed a delicate heart shape. A small moment, but a charming one.
Taste & Experience
The result is a clean, refreshing drink with subtle roasted notes balanced by gentle sweetness and citrus brightness. It is light, calming, and particularly well suited for the evening when you want something more interesting than water, but without the stimulation of caffeine.
Why This Hojicha Stands Out
Good hojicha can be surprisingly difficult to find in Dubai, especially one that is fresh, well-balanced, and not overly smoky. This particular hojicha from Hallnara stands out for its smoothness and restraint. It is roasted with care, allowing the natural character of the tea to remain intact.
In my opinion, it is well worth trying—especially if you are exploring low-caffeine tea options or looking to expand your evening drink repertoire beyond the usual choices.
Sometimes, the simplest recipes become the ones you return to most. This is one of them.
