Roasted barley (or "mugicha" in Japanese and "boricha" in Korean) is traditionally made by roasting barley grains to a deep, dark brown color. This process brings out a rich, smoky aroma that is robust and earthy. Upon roasting, the natural sugars in the barley caramelize, giving it a subtle sweetness under the predominantly bitter and toasty flavors. The scent of roasted barley can be compared to that of freshly roasted coffee beans, but with a grainier, nutty character. It's often noted for its warm, comforting qualities. When used in brewing tea or incorporated into culinary recipes, roasted barley imparts a bold, savory flavor that complements a variety of dishes, especially those with similarly intense flavors.
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