If you’ve been itching to discover the wonders of white tea but don’t know where to begin, then this post is for you.
Let’s start from square one and learn all about matcha tea!
It might sound like a mysterious concoction that must be concocted through an alchemical process, but it couldn’t be simpler to understand!
We’ll have you mastering your own matcha latte in no time flat – so come with me while we explore the wonderful world of white tea.
With just a little knowledge and effort, your next cup will be truly sublime.
So settle in, pour yourself a warm mug of freshly brewed green brew, and become an expert on everything matcha over these next few minutes.
Here we go!
TYPES OF MATCHA TEA
Matcha tea is an incredibly versatile type of green tea.
Whether you’re looking for a revitalizing morning pick-me-up, an afternoon snack to keep your energy levels up, or just an enjoyable way to end the day, there’s a Matcha tea that suits your needs!
Let’s take a look at some of the most popular varieties of Matcha:
CEREMONIAL GRADE MATCHA
Ceremonial Grade Matcha is the highest quality of matcha tea available.
It has a smooth, creamy texture and a naturally sweet taste.
Ceremonial grade matcha is made from four-year-old shade-grown green tea plants that have the entire leaf intact in the powder form.
Ceremonial grade matcha contains more antioxidants than other grades of matcha and is an excellent source of catechins such as EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate).
Additionally, ceremonial grade matcha has numerous health benefits including improved mental clarity and concentration, increased energy levels, lower cholesterol levels, and a lower risk of cancer.
PREMIUM GRADE MATCHA
Premium Grade Matcha is the second highest quality of matcha tea.
It has a smooth, creamy texture and a naturally sweet taste.
Premium grade matcha is made from two-year-old shade-grown green tea plants that are ground into powder form.
Premium grade matcha contains a lower amount of antioxidants than ceremonial grade matcha but still provides numerous health benefits such as improved mental clarity and concentration, increased energy levels, lower cholesterol levels, and a lower risk of cancer.
Premium grade matcha is ideal for use in traditional tea ceremonies and can be used in everyday recipes ranging from smoothies to cakes.
CULINARY GRADE MATCHA
Culinary Grade Matcha is the third highest quality of matcha tea.
It has a slightly bitter taste and can be used in everyday recipes ranging from smoothies to cakes.
Culinary grade matcha is made from one-year-old shade-grown green tea plants that are ground into powder form.
Because of its lower antioxidant content, culinary grade matcha has fewer health benefits than ceremonial and premium grade matcha, but can still provide mental clarity and increased energy levels.
Culinary grade matcha is perfect for adding flavor and color to all kinds of recipes.
ORGANIC MATCHA
Organic Matcha is made from organically grown green tea plants that are two-years-old and shade-grown.
It has a smooth, creamy texture and a naturally sweet taste.
Organic matcha is higher in antioxidants than culinary grade matcha, making it more beneficial to one’s health with improved mental clarity and concentration, increased energy levels, lower cholesterol levels, and a lower risk of cancer.
Organic matcha is perfect for use in traditional tea ceremonies or in everyday recipes ranging from smoothies to cakes.
FLAVORED MATCHA
Flavored Matcha is matcha tea powder blended with natural flavors such as vanilla, strawberry, or raspberry.
This type of matcha has a sweeter taste than organic or culinary grade matcha, while still providing many of the same health benefits due to its high antioxidant content.
Flavored matcha can be used in traditional tea ceremonies or in everyday recipes such as cakes and smoothies.
The added flavor provides an extra kick to any recipe.
REGIONAL MATCHA
Regional Matcha is matcha tea that has been sourced from specific regions known for producing high-quality and flavorful teas.
Japan is the main producer of matcha, with many regions producing their own distinct flavor profile.
Regionally sourced matchas vary widely in color and taste due to soil type, sunlight exposure, harvesting techniques, and climate conditions.
Regional matcha is sought after by tea connoisseurs as it provides a unique and intense flavor profile that can be tailored to any preference.
BREWING MATCHA TEA
Brewing matcha tea involves whisking a small amount of the powdered tea with hot water to create a frothy and flavorful beverage. Here are the steps to brewing matcha tea:
- Heat up water to a temperature of around 80-82°C (175-180°F), which is slightly cooler than boiling water. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can heat the water until small bubbles start to appear at the bottom of the pot.
- Sift 1-2 teaspoons of matcha powder into a small bowl to remove any lumps or clumps.
- Pour a small amount of hot water (about 2-3 oz or 60-90 ml) into the bowl with the matcha powder.
- Use a bamboo whisk (also known as a chasen) to whisk the matcha and hot water vigorously in a “W” or “M” motion until the mixture becomes frothy and the powder is fully dissolved. This should take about 15-20 seconds.
- Once the matcha is fully whisked, add more hot water to the bowl to make a total of about 8-12 oz (240-350 ml) of tea, depending on your desired strength.
- Drink the matcha tea immediately while it’s still hot, or add ice to make a refreshing iced matcha latte.
Note: Matcha tea can also be prepared in a blender, by adding the matcha powder, hot water, and any desired sweeteners or milk, and blending until frothy.
HEALTH BENEFITS OF MATCHA TEA
INCREASES ENERGY LEVELS
Matcha contains high levels of caffeine, which can act as an energy booster when consumed.
Matcha also contains theanine, an amino acid found in tea leaves that helps to reduce stress and improve focus.
This combination of caffeine and theanine helps provide a sustained energy boost with fewer jitters associated with other types of caffeine.
Matcha also contains high levels of antioxidants that help fight free radicals and promote healthy cell function, further helping to increase energy levels.
Matcha Tea is known for its ability to boost metabolism, which can help burn calories faster and improve overall energy efficiency.
Additionally, Matcha Tea has been linked to improved blood flow, providing increased oxygen supply to the body’s cells and organs which can contribute to higher energy levels.
CONCLUSION
Matcha tea is an excellent choice for anyone looking for an all-natural pick-me-up with lasting effects that don’t come with any unwanted side effects.
IMPROVES MENTAL CLARITY & CONCENTRATION
Matcha contains high levels of antioxidants like catechins, which can help reduce physical and mental fatigue as well as increase focus, alertness, and energy levels.
It also contains L-theanine, an amino acid that boosts alpha wave production, inducing relaxation without drowsiness.
Due to this, Matcha tea can support calm mental clarity while allowing users to stay alert, focused and productive.
Matcha improves concentration by providing a sustained energy boost with no crash or jitters.
This makes it ideal for people who need to be productive but don’t want the side effects of caffeine found in coffee or other caffeinated beverages.
Matcha also helps improve memory and cognitive function while aiding in digestion, weight loss and detoxification.
CONCLUSION
So if you’re looking for a natural way to give your mental clarity and concentration a boost, Matcha tea may be just what you need!
LOWERS RISK OF CANCER
Matcha contains catechins and polyphenols, which are powerful antioxidants that protect the body from cancerous cell growth and DNA damage.
It also has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the risk of developing certain types of cancers.
Matcha is packed with chlorophyll and carotenoids, both of which are known to have anti-carcinogenic properties and can help keep carcinogens out of the body.
Furthermore, Matcha can even suppress tumor growth and therefore provide an effective natural remedy for those at risk of developing certain types of cancers.
Matcha is also rich in fiber, promoting digestion and maintaining a healthy digestive tract — something that can be crucial to preventing some forms of cancer.
CONCLUSION
Matcha tea offers a wide range of health benefits that could help reduce the risk of developing different types of cancers when consumed regularly.
LOWERS CHOLESTEROL LEVELS
Matcha tea is made from green tea leaves, which contain catechins, a type of antioxidant that can help reduce levels of unhealthy lipids known as triglycerides and LDL cholesterol.
Studies have also shown that Matcha can improve the overall balance of triglycerides and HDL cholesterol (the “good” cholesterol).
Matcha has also been found to be effective at lowering inflammation in the body, which is linked to reduced risk of cardiovascular disease.
PAIRING MATCHA TEA WITH FOOD
Matcha tea is an incredibly unique and versatile beverage that can be enjoyed in many different ways.
In addition to the traditional Japanese Matcha Tea Ceremony, Matcha Tea can also be paired with food for a delicious combination of flavors and textures.
The flavor profile of Matcha Tea is characterized by its grassy and vegetal notes, making it an ideal match for savory dishes like grilled vegetables, mushrooms, and fish.
Matcha pairs especially well with seaweed-based dishes like sushi or miso soup because of its complementary umami flavor.
Matcha’s strong herbal notes can also make it a great accompaniment to dessert dishes such as green tea ice cream or Matcha cake.
Matcha’s earthy flavor profile naturally complements the savory flavors of red meats such as steak or pork.
Matcha can also help to balance out richer dishes like stir fries or ramen noodle soups.
For those looking for a slightly more adventurous pairing, Matcha can even work well with sweet treats such as chocolates or fruit-based desserts like poached pears or strawberry shortcake.
No matter what you choose to pair it with, Matcha tea is sure to enhance any culinary experience!
SUMMARY
Matcha is a finely ground green tea powder that has been popular in Japan and other parts of Asia for centuries.
In its traditional form, Matcha is prepared by whisking the powder with hot water to create a flavorful, frothy beverage.
Matcha can also be used to flavor desserts, lattes and other dishes.
Matcha contains an abundance of powerful antioxidants, catechins, and vitamins that may benefit overall health by regulating hormones, aiding digestion, and helping to protect cells from damage.
Matcha has a unique taste and aroma that is grassy and slightly sweet.
Matcha’s vibrant green color is due to its high levels of chlorophyll which can help to detoxify the body.
Matcha offers numerous health benefits including increased mental clarity and focus, improved skin health, immune system support, healthy weight management and improved cardiovascular function.