A Traditional Japanese Mugicha(Barley Tea) Guide

What is Mugicha (Barley Tea)?

Mugicha is a traditional Japanese non-caffeinated beverage made from roasted barley. It is especially popular chilled during the hot summer months and is loved by people of all ages, from children to the elderly. Known for its toasty aroma and refreshing taste, it is an excellent drink for hydration. Since it contains no caffeine, it's safe to drink before bed or when feeling under the weather.

Barley tea contains antioxidants and minerals (especially potassium), and is believed to help cool the body and regulate digestive health. In Japan, it is sold in various forms such as tea bags, whole barley grains, and powder, and can be easily brewed either by boiling or cold brewing.

Similar barley tea traditions also exist in countries like Korea and China, and it's gaining attention globally as a healthy drink.

History of Mugicha(Barley Tea)

Barley tea has a long history in Japan, dating back to the Heian period (794–1185), when it was enjoyed by the aristocracy as a medicinal tea. During the Edo period, roadside teahouses known as "mugiyuya" began to appear, where travelers and townspeople drank barley tea to cool down in the summer heat. This marked the beginning of its widespread popularity as a seasonal summer beverage.

With the advancement of roasting and boiling techniques during the Meiji era, barley tea became even more accessible for home consumption. During World War II, when coffee and black tea were scarce, barley tea re-emerged as a substitute drink.

After the war, the spread of refrigerators led to the common practice of drinking it cold, solidifying its place as a staple summer drink in Japanese households. In recent years, rising health awareness has further increased its popularity as a caffeine-free beverage, both in Japan and abroad.

Flavor Characteristics of Mugicha(Barley Tea)

Barley tea is known for its rich, roasted aroma, mild bitterness, and clean finish. Extracted from roasted barley, the tea gives off a comforting scent similar to nuts or toast, even before taking a sip.

It has a light, unobtrusive taste with a subtle sweetness, making it a great companion to meals as it doesn't overpower food flavors. Because it’s caffeine-free, it offers a smooth, non-stimulating drinking experience—perfect for quenching your thirst in the summer and cooling down the body.

The depth of roasting affects its flavor: light roast yields a milder taste, while dark roast provides a more robust, nutty flavor with a fuller body.

Health Benefits of Mugicha(Barley Tea)

1. Caffeine-Free and Gentle on the Body

Since barley tea contains no caffeine, it is safe for pregnant or nursing women, small children, and even as a bedtime drink. It doesn't stimulate the nervous system, making it great for relaxation.

2. Antioxidant Properties

Barley tea includes antioxidants such as "pyrazine" and "ferulic acid." These help reduce active oxygen in the body and are believed to aid in preventing aging and lifestyle-related diseases.

3. Improves Blood Circulation

Pyrazine helps thin the blood and improve circulation, which may be effective in preventing poor circulation and stiff shoulders. This compound is part of the fragrant aroma created during roasting.

4. Gentle on the Stomach and Aids Digestion

Barley tea has mild antacid properties that help calm the secretion of stomach acid. It’s a good choice for people with sensitive stomachs or those who experience indigestion easily.

5. Hydration and Heatstroke Prevention

It contains minerals such as sodium and potassium, which help replenish nutrients lost through sweat. This makes it a perfect choice for hydration and heatstroke prevention during summer.

How to Brew Mugicha(Barley Tea)

Hot Brew Method (Boiling)

Ingredients (for 1 liter):

• Barley tea bag: 1–2 bags (or whole barley grains: approx. 10–15g)
• Water: 1 liter

Instructions:

1. Bring water to a boil in a pot.
2. Add the tea bags (or barley grains) and simmer over medium to low heat for 5–10 minutes.
3. Turn off the heat, remove the tea bags or strain out the grains.
4. You can drink it warm or chill it in the fridge.

Tips:

• The longer you boil, the stronger and more robust the flavor.
• Adding a pinch of salt can enhance the mildness.

Cold Brew Method

Ingredients (for 1 liter):

• Barley tea bag: 1 bag (or whole barley grains: approx. 10g)
• Cold water: 1 liter

Instructions:

1. Place the tea bag and water in a pot or pitcher.
2. Let it steep in the fridge for 2–4 hours.
3. Remove the tea bag and optionally add ice before serving.

Tips:

• Preparing it the night before makes it ready to drink in the morning.
• If you prefer a lighter flavor, reduce the steeping time.

Recipes Using Mugicha(Barley Tea)

Barley Tea Rice (Takikomi Gohan-style)

Ingredients (for 2 cups of rice):

• White rice: 2 cups
• Strong barley tea (hot or cold brewed): about 400ml (adjust to rice cooker level)
• Fried tofu (aburaage): 1 piece, thinly sliced
• Carrot: 1/3, julienned
• Shimeji mushrooms: 1/2 pack
• Soy sauce: 1 tbsp
• Mirin: 1 tbsp
• Salt: a pinch

Instructions:

1. Rinse the rice and soak it for about 30 minutes, then drain.
2. Add rice, ingredients, and seasonings to the rice cooker.
3. Pour barley tea in place of water up to the appropriate line (stronger tea is better).
4. Stir lightly and cook as usual.
5. Mix well after cooking and serve.

Mugicha(Barley Tea) Jelly

Ingredients (serves 2–3):

• Strong barley tea: 250ml
• Powdered gelatin: 5g (about 1 packet)
• Water (for blooming gelatin): 2 tbsp
• Brown sugar or honey: 1–2 tbsp (adjust to taste)
• Optional toppings: kuromitsu (black sugar syrup), roasted soybean flour (kinako), milk, etc.

Instructions:

1. Bloom the gelatin by soaking it in water.
2. In a saucepan, warm the barley tea with sugar over medium heat (do not boil).
3. Turn off the heat, add the bloomed gelatin, and stir until completely dissolved.
4. Pour into molds or cups, let cool, then refrigerate for 2–3 hours until set.
5. Serve with your choice of toppings such as kuromitsu or kinako.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mugicha(Barley Tea) (FAQ)

Q1. Does barley tea contain caffeine?

A. No, it doesn't.
Barley tea is made from roasted barley and is naturally caffeine-free, making it safe for children, pregnant women, and as a bedtime drink.

Q2. How long can homemade barley tea be stored?

A. If refrigerated, it should be consumed within 2–3 days.
Since homemade tea contains no preservatives, it's best to drink it soon. Using clean containers is also important for freshness.

Q3. Which is better: cold brew or hot brew?

A. Each has its own appeal.

• Cold brew: Simple and refreshing with a mellow flavor.
• Hot brew: Stronger roasted aroma and fuller taste, ideal for those who prefer a richer flavor.

Q4. Can babies drink barley tea?

A. Yes, they can.
However, it's recommended to wait until the baby is around 6 months old. Start with diluted barley tea for peace of mind.

Q5. Can I add sugar to barley tea?

A. Absolutely.
In some regions like Okinawa, sweetened barley tea is popular. Adding honey or brown sugar can be a nice twist.

Q6. Is barley tea gluten-free?

A. No, it’s not.
Since it’s made from barley, it contains gluten. People with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should avoid it.

Q7. How many calories does barley tea have?

A. Zero calories (unless you add sweeteners).
It's a diet-friendly drink you can enjoy without guilt.