From Matcha face masks to sweet Matcha lattes at your local café/tea shop (Tea Zaanti), it seems like Matcha is all of the craze recently. But while it may seem like matcha is a hip new trend, this special tea has been a revered part of Japanese ceremonial culture for centuries.
Unlike many other green teas, Matcha is a ground powder composed of the entire tea leaf (the tree is called Camellia Sinensis). This powder is traditionally blended with water, resulting in a tea that is a bit thicker in texture and contains added nutrients and antioxidant properties because you are ingesting the whole tea leaf versus just steeping the nutrients from it. Matcha is easily recognizable due to its bright green color and completely unique flavor profile which some describe as grassy and earthy. Not only is matcha a delicious treat, but its health benefits have earned it the title of an ultimate superfood! While regular green tea is known for being high in antioxidants, one cup of Matcha has the antioxidants of ten cups of green tea. Along with antioxidants, Matcha provides vitamins and nutrients like Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and potassium. For centuries, the monks have believed the properties in matcha help to boost metabolism and burn calories, aid in detoxifying, and increase energy levels in a way that is used to remain alert yet calm through a meditation practice.
People consume and enjoy matcha in a variety of forms and for a variety of reasons—whether you are a student looking to boost energy and focus, a health conscious person looking for natural nourishment, or a curious tea lover—Matcha can be for everyone!
-How we make it: Matcha is simple to prepare! Typically one teaspoon of Matcha powder is mixed or whisked with 3-4 ounces of hot water (175 degrees F).
-How to Drink it: While Matcha is traditionally consumed in its pure form, Matcha in latte form is a popular favorite as the milk and bit of sweetener can cut the green and sometimes slightly bitter taste for those who want more of a treat. In addition to the traditional high grade Matcha tea, we offer delicious blueberry, raspberry, and sweet Matcha!
Outside the shop, we’ve been known to add matcha to our smoothies, make cocktails, whip up homemade ice cream, dust the top of rice krispie treats and use it in a variety of other fun treats. If you don’t have time to enjoy a cup in the shop, we sell it by the gram or on our website and would love to hear how you enjoy your matcha at home.
Written by: Stu Nolan
Edited by: Becky Lyttle