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What is stem tea? Introducing the characteristics of stem tea and how to brew it deliciously.

One type of Japanese tea is stem tea. As the name suggests, stem tea is made from the stems of the tea plant, which are slightly below the leaves and are typically about 3 to 5 mm long. Since stem tea is a general term for tea made from stems, there are various types and names depending on the tea-making method.

For example:

Sencha Stem Tea: Made from the stems of tea leaves used to make sencha.
Karinagane Bōcha and Gyokuro Stem Tea: Made from the stems of tea leaves used to make gyokuro.
Stem Hōjicha: Made by roasting stem tea.

Due to its shape, it is also sometimes called “bōcha” (stick tea).

The photo below shows stem hōjicha, which is made by roasting stem tea. In the case of green tea, its color is a vibrant yellow-green.

Appearance Characteristics of Tea Leaves and Brewed Tea

The appearance characteristic of stem tea, as shown in the photo, is its stick-like shape. Green tea has a vivid yellow-green color, lightly roasted hojicha is yellow, and deeply roasted hojicha is light brown.

Flavor Characteristics

Both green tea and hojicha share a common flavor characteristic in stem tea: a mild sweetness. The article that introduces the differences between Gyokuro, Kabusecha, and Sencha. As explained earlier, the astringency in tea comes from catechins, which are produced during the photosynthesis process in the leaves. Since photosynthesis mainly occurs in the leaves, stem tea, which uses the stems, tends to be characterized by sweetness and umami rather than astringency.

Aroma Characteristics

Stem tea has a crisp, fresh, green aroma. Depending on the roasting method used in the tea production, such as for green tea, lightly roasted hojicha, or deeply roasted hojicha, you can enjoy a variety of aromatic profiles.

Brewing Conditions

Tea leaves: 5g (2-3 teaspoons)
Water amount: 300ml
Brewing temperature: 80°C (90°C is recommended for hojicha)
Brewing time: 1.5 to 2 minutes. The same brewing time applies for hojicha.
Other: For a delicious iced tea, use water below room temperature and let it brew in the refrigerator for 4-5 hours.

Stem tea is characterized by its low astringency, pleasant sweetness, and fresh green aroma. It is a versatile tea that can be enjoyed by those who are sensitive to bitterness and astringency, as well as by children. Enjoy it in various daily situations!