Genmaicha

Winner of the Bronze medal at the 2018 Spring Hot (Loose Leaf) Global Tea Championship.

A Japanese green tea blended with toasted brown rice.  Sometimes called "popcorn" tea because during the roasting process a few grains of rice pop and look like bits of popcorn.  Originally, rice was added to the tea to stretch it and make it affordable for poor people.  However, Genmaicha is now enjoyed by all classes of society, especially with meals.  Its nutty flavour enhances and complements nearly any meal, especially Asian cuisine.