Genmaicha

Genmaicha(玄米茶, "brown rice tea") is the Japanese name for green tea combined with roasted brown rice. It is sometimes referred to colloquially as "popcorn tea" because a few grains of the rice pop during the roasting process and resemble popcorn. This type of tea was originally drunk by poor Japanese, as the rice served as a filler and reduced the price of the tea; which is why it is also known as the "people's tea." It was also used by those persons fasting for religious purposes or who found themselves to be between meals for long periods of time. The rice imparts its sugar and starches into the tea, creating a bright, smooth tea with warm, nutty flavors and satisfying full body. Eminently drinkable, relaxing, and soothing to the stomach, a wonderful drink morning or evening. Today it is consumed by all segments of society.