The Iced Kyoto Fog is a hojicha latte with a delicate sweetness that comes from the addition of vanilla syrup.
What is an Iced Kyoto Fog?
Similar to the London Fog, the main ingredients used to prepare a Kyoto Fog are tea, milk, and a splash of vanilla syrup. The specific tea used for the Iced Kyoto Fog is Hojicha Powder, a roasted green tea originating in Kyoto, Japan. The tea powder has a rich roasted flavor that makes it perfect for enjoying as a latte with any type of milk or milk alternative. The Kyoto Fog can be served iced or as a hot hojicha latte, and in the recipe below we'll show you how to prepare it as a refreshing iced latte.
How much Hojicha Powder should you use in an Iced Kyoto Fog?
When preparing iced hojicha lattes, we recommend starting with 2 teaspoons (about 3 g) of Hojicha Powder. This is double the amount recommended for a hot latte, as this ensures that the drink will remain flavorful even if the ice cubes melt. Feel free to adjust the amount to your liking, by using 1 teaspoon of Hojicha Powder for a vanilla latte with subtle roasted notes or by increasing the amount of tea to 1 tablespoon (about 5 g) for a much stronger iced latte that is closer to those offered at cafes.
Why is cold water used to whisk the Hojicha Powder?
Since Hojicha Powder is made from Japanese roasted green tea, boiling water burns the delicate tea and results in a bitter taste. That is why it is best to use water that is 80°C / 175°F or below for whisking Hojicha Powder. Cold water is especially recommended for preparing iced hojicha lattes since this keeps the ice from melting and diluting the drink. As long as a minimal amount of water is used, the finely ground Hojicha Powder can be easily whisked in warm or cold water to create a smooth latte.
Ingredients
Vanilla Syrup
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 tablespoons water
- ¼ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Iced Kyoto Fog
- 1/2 cup ice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla syrup
- 180 ml milk of your choice (we used oat milk)
- 2 teaspoons Hojicha Powder
- 60 ml cold filtered water
Instructions
- Prepare the vanilla syrup by combining 2 tablespoons of sugar and 2 tablespoons of water in a small saucepan.
- Stir occasionally over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
- Remove from the heat, and stir in ¼ teaspoon of pure vanilla extract.
- Transfer the vanilla syrup into an airtight container and let cool. Store the cooled syrup in the fridge until you’re ready to prepare your drink.
- Prepare the Iced Kyoto Fog by adding 1/2 cup of ice, 1 teaspoon of the homemade vanilla syrup, and 180 ml of your preferred milk into a glass.
- Whisk 2 teaspoons of Hojicha Powder with 60 ml of cold filtered water.
- Slowly pour the whisked hojicha into the glass.
- Stir, sip, and adjust to taste by adding more vanilla syrup if desired before enjoying your delicious Iced Kyoto Fog.
Looking to feel warm and cozy? Try our recipe for a hot Kyoto Fog Latte.
