Since the 2000s, matcha tea, a 100% natural tea rich in antioxidants with a unique taste, has crossed the borders of Japan. It is now prepared without a whisk, consumed with milk or plant-based beverages, and used as an ingredient in various pastry recipes. In the West, it is most popular as a matcha latte!
This article explains how to prepare a matcha latte and a traditional matcha. Unlike other teas, matcha doesn't steep because it's a powdered tea that is ingested directly. Don't worry, preparing this drink is easier than it seems!
Ingredients for preparing a matcha latte or traditional matcha
- 1 level teaspoon of organic matcha powder (Ceremony, Premium, or Classic). You can use a regular spoon or a bamboo spoon ("chashaku").
- Your choice of milk (oat milk, coconut milk, rice milk, or any other plant-based milk).
- A sweetener (honey, sugar, agave syrup), although our matchas are extremely smooth and may not need any sweetening.
- A chasen (traditional bamboo matcha whisk) or an electric frother.
- A bowl (chawan in Japanese) or a cup/glass/mug.
Preparation of the matcha latte or traditional matcha
Prepare the matcha with water: Place one teaspoon of matcha powder in a bowl. Add 70 ml of water heated to around 75°C (not boiling water to avoid bitterness). Be sure to tightly close the matcha container for optimal storage.
Whisk the matcha: Use a chasen to whisk vigorously in M-shaped movements (not 8-shaped) to avoid clumps. The whisk should barely touch the bowl.
Add the milk: For a hot matcha latte, add your choice of milk. You may also add a sweetener if desired.
Matcha Usucha and Koicha
- Usucha (薄茶): Prepared with about 2g of matcha powder and 75 ml of water to create a thin and balanced texture.
- Koicha (濃茶): Prepared with a larger amount of matcha and less water, resulting in a thicker texture and more intense flavor. Use higher-quality matchas for this preparation.
Iced matcha
Matcha can also be enjoyed cold. Use warm water to dissolve the matcha powder, then add cold milk and ice cubes for an iced matcha latte. You can customize your drink with syrups, cinnamon, or other ingredients according to your taste.
Tips and Variations
If you don't have a whisk or frother, a blender, shaker, or hand mixer can be used to mix the matcha. Matcha can also be added to smoothies, yogurts, or various pastry recipes like madeleines, cakes, and cookies.
Enjoy the preparation of your matcha and savor each sip of this drink with numerous benefits!
