Matcha has been making waves in the health and wellness scene for a few years now, and for good reason. This vibrant green Japanese tea powder has become a popular choice among those looking for a healthy and energizing beverage.
As a tea lover myself, I was intrigued when I first heard about matcha. I've always enjoyed the calming and soothing effects of tea, but I was excited to try a drink that promised to boost my energy and focus. So, I decided to give matcha a try, and it's safe to say I was hooked from the first sip. The unique taste and texture, combined with the burst of energy, made me an instant fan.
Unlike other types of green tea, which can be bitter or astringent, matcha has a smooth, creamy flavor with a hint of sweetness - it has a more complex and nuanced flavor profile.
What is Matcha?
( also known as Japanese Green Tea )
Matcha originated in China during the Tang dynasty, but it was the Japanese who developed the unique process of cultivating and producing matcha.
It became a vital part of Japanese culture, used in traditional tea ceremonies as a symbol of hospitality and respect.
The process of making matcha involves growing the tea leaves in shade for several weeks, which increases the production of chlorophyll and other compounds that give matcha its unique flavor and health benefits. The leaves are then harvested, steamed, and dried before being ground into a fine powder using traditional stone mills.
This leaf is a versatile ingredient that can be used in various ways - the most common one being the traditional tea which is made by whisking matcha powder with hot water until it becomes frothy. This method produces a smooth and creamy texture, and the taste is slightly sweet and earthy.
How To Make Matcha Green Tea - Step By Step
Making matcha may seem daunting at first, but with the right equipment and technique, it can be easy and enjoyable.
To make matcha, you will need a few basic tools -
High-grade Matcha powder
Matcha bowl or a Chawan
Bamboo whisk or a Chasen
Bamboo scoop or a Chashaku
Sieve (optional)
Step One - Shift and Add
Measure out about 1-2 grams (or about 1 tsp) of matcha powder using the bamboo scoop and sift it through a fine mesh sieve to remove any lumps.
Two - Make a Paste
Bring a pot of water to a boil and then let it cool for a few minutes to around 80°C (175°F). This temperature is ideal for matcha as it won't scorch the tea leaves or make the tea taste bitter.
Add a small amount of hot water (about 30ml or 1oz) into the matcha bowl to wet the powder
In my opinion, this is one of the most crucial steps in this process. If your water is too hot - your matcha tea will just not taste as good.
Step Three - Whisk Till Frothy
Whisk the mixture with the bamboo whisk until it becomes a smooth paste with no lumps.
Add the remaining hot water to the matcha bowl (about 70ml or 2oz) and whisk the mixture in a back-and-forth motion until the tea becomes frothy and bubbly.
Step Four - Top off with more water
Drink the matcha directly from the bowl, or pour it into a smaller cup for sipping. Matcha is traditionally enjoyed without any additives, but you can add a touch of honey or sugar to sweeten it if desired.
Additionally, turning it into a latte
If you wish to turn this drink into a sweeter and creamier latte - you can do so by adding frothed milk over the concentrated mix.
My milk of choice is oat milk as I believe it compliments the subtle notes of matcha beautifully.
Adding oat milk to matcha not only adds a creamy texture and a delicious nutty flavor but also enhances the health benefits of the matcha. Oat milk is rich in fiber, which helps to keep you feeling full and aids digestion. It also contains vitamins and minerals like calcium and iron, which can help to boost your immune system and energy levels.
Tips To Keep In Mind
To get the best flavor and texture from matcha, it is essential to use the right equipment and techniques. Here are some tips on how to prepare matcha:
1. Quality & Grade
When it comes to choosing matcha, the quality, and grade are important factors to consider. Matcha is available in different grades, ranging from culinary grade to ceremonial grade.
Culinary grade matcha: This is the lowest grade of matcha and is typically used for baking or cooking. It has a bitter taste and a dull green color and may contain additives.
Premium grade matcha: This is a mid-range grade of matcha and is suitable for both drinking and cooking. It has a bright green color and a smoother taste.
Ceremonial grade matcha: This is the highest grade of matcha. It's made from the youngest tea leaves and has a bright green color and a delicate flavor with a slightly sweet aftertaste. It's used in traditional Japanese tea ceremonies.
When choosing matcha, it's important to read the label and look for key indicators of quality such as the origin, harvest date, and processing method
I would suggest choosing one that is made from shade-grown tea leaves, as this helps to enhance the flavor and nutrient content. As well as a package that is fresh.
2. Traditional Tools
The right tools not only make the process easier and more efficient but also affect the taste and texture of the matcha.
The matcha bowl is a wide and shallow bowl that's specifically designed for making and drinking matcha. The wide shape allows you to whisk the matcha paste vigorously and create more froth.
The shape and design of the traditional bamboo whisk can help break up any clumps and create a smooth and creamy texture. Using a regular whisk or spoon will not give you the same results.
3. Shelf Life & Storage
Matcha should be packaged in an airtight container to prevent exposure to moisture and air, which can cause it to spoil faster. It should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, heat, and humidity. Exposure to light, heat, or moisture can cause the matcha to lose its flavor and color and become stale.
Higher-quality matcha is usually fresher and has a longer shelf life.
After the drink is prepared, serve the matcha immediately after preparing it to enjoy its full flavor and health benefits.
Coffee or Matcha - Which One Is Better?
Matcha contains caffeine and L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes relaxation and improves mental focus. The combination of caffeine and L-theanine can provide a sustained boost of energy without the jitters that come with drinking coffee.
It is known for its potential health benefits, as it is packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. It has been shown to boost metabolism, improve heart health, and reduce the risk of certain types of cancer.
When it comes to picking between the two - it honestly is just a matter of personal choice.
If you're looking for a quick energy boost and don't mind the potential side effects, coffee might be a good option. However, if you're looking for a more sustained source of energy with additional health benefits, matcha might be a better choice.
In my opinion, matcha is not just a drink, it's a whole experience that can be customized to fit your taste preferences and lifestyle.
From traditional matcha tea ceremonies to modern matcha lattes, there's something for everyone. The key to finding your perfect cup of matcha is to experiment and try different recipes, grades, and brewing methods until you find what works best for you.
So go ahead and give it a try, who knows, you might just fall in love with this vibrant green beverage!
Love,
Rae
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