Houjicha (Roasted Bancha Tea)

This tea drink is a bancha that is lightly roasted, which gives it a nutty flavor. Not at all a connoisseur tea, but a fun everyday drink that goes well with Japanese foods, particularly sukiyaki or any food strongly flavored with soy sauce. Its liquor is a tawny brownish color with a smoky taste. Although best when served hot, it also can be served cool but not cold. It is excellent at nighttime, as it is very light and low in caffeine. Use 1 teaspoon (3g) dried leaves per 6 ounces of spring water heated to 170-180°, steeping for 3 minutes.