Drink · Cozy Sips

London Fog Hojicha

The London Fog Hojicha is a drink that brings together two of the cosiest things I know roasted hojicha and a milky, vanilla-scented base that wraps around you like a warm blanket. Hojicha has a naturally lower caffeine content than green tea which makes this a perfect evening drink when you want something warm without the buzz. The steamed milk is the most important component here so take your time getting it velvety and smooth. This drink is simple, deeply comforting, and the kind of thing that becomes a ritual. Once you have made it at home, you will crave it constantly.

Ingredients

Hojicha Base

Earl Grey Syrup (makes enough for several drinks)

Method

  1. 1Make the earl grey syrup: combine water and sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until sugar dissolves, add earl grey tea bags, and simmer for 5 minutes. Remove tea bags and let the syrup cool completely.
  2. 2Sift hojicha powder into a small bowl.
  3. 3Pour boiling water into a teacup to cool it to 175°F, then pour into the tea bowl with the hojicha.
  4. 4Add maple syrup and whisk vigorously for 15 seconds in an "M" shape until smooth and frothy.
  5. 5Add ice to a glass, pour in the earl grey syrup and milk, then slowly pour the hojicha on top.

Tips & Notes

The steamed milk is key here froth it until it is velvety and thick. Hojicha has a naturally lower caffeine content than green tea, making this a lovely evening drink. The vanilla syrup can be swapped for a lavender or honey syrup for variation.