Sencha 煎茶 is one of many types of green tea that come from the Camellia sinensis plant (like black tea). It’s the most popular type of tea in Japan and is used for other teas, like Genmaicha.

Instructions for hot tea (per person)

1. Measure out 2-3 grams (about 2 tsps) of sencha leaves and add to teapot or kyusu 急須

2. Boil water (200 mL per person) and let cool until it reaches 80°C (175°F)

3. Poor into the tea pot

4. Let steep for up to one minute

5. Pour the tea through a strainer (a chakoshi 茶こし in Japan) into individual cups

6. Enjoy

Instructions for cold brew (per person)

1. Measure 2-3 grams (about 2 tsps) of genmaicha per cup of water

2. Steep water and tea for 3 to 6 hours in the fridge

3. Strain tea into glasses and add ice

4. Enjoy!