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Tokyo Tea

Tokyo tea is a light and refreshing Japanese beverage made with green tea, fresh lemon juice, and honey. It can be served hot or iced for a bright, elegant drink with delicate tea notes and citrus sweetness.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Course: Beverage
Cuisine: Japanese
Calories: 45
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 2 teaspoons Japanese green tea sencha or matcha blend
  • 1 1/2 cups hot water
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 cup ice cubes if serving cold
  • 2 lemon slices for garnish
  • 3 to 4 fresh mint leaves optional

Equipment

  • Kettle or pot for heating water
  • Two tall glasses or teacups
  • Small strainer or tea infuser
  • Measuring spoons
  • Measuring cups
  • Citrus juicer or fork
  • Long spoon for stirring
  • Small cutting board and knife

Method
 

  1. Heat the water in a kettle or pot until steam rises steadily and it is just below a rolling boil, about 160 to 180°F (71 to 82°C). Remove it from the heat before it boils.
  2. Place the Japanese green tea into a strainer or tea infuser.
  3. Pour the hot water over the tea and steep for exactly 2 minutes.
  4. Remove the strainer and discard the tea leaves so the tea does not become bitter.
  5. Stir in the fresh lemon juice while the tea is still hot.
  6. Add the honey and stir until it fully dissolves.
  7. Divide the tea evenly between 2 tall glasses.
  8. For an iced version, add the ice cubes, then garnish each glass with a lemon slice and mint leaves if using.

Notes

Use fresh lemon juice for the brightest flavor, and do not steep the tea longer than 2 minutes to avoid bitterness. Serve hot or cold. Store brewed tea separately from lemon juice and honey for up to 24 hours if making ahead.