How to Make Matcha ( A Nutrient Rich Japanese Green Tea)

Matcha, a vibrant, finely powdered green tea, has been a cornerstone of Japanese tea ceremonies for centuries. It has gained popularity worldwide for its unique, earthy flavor and numerous health benefits. But how exactly do you make it at home? Here is a simple guide on to how to make matcha.

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Although it has been many years now I still remember my first cup of matcha. I wish I knew then what I know now about how to make matcha. I am glad I purchased a good quality matcha but my first attempts at preparation didn’t make me excited to keep trying. Fast forwarding about 7 years to today, I know exactly how to make my perfect cup of matcha tea. I hope this simple recipe will be the beginning of a wonderful journey into matcha for you.

What is Matcha?

Matcha is a nutrient-packed green tea. It is grown in Japan using a unique method of shading the plants a few weeks before harvest. After harvesting and processing the tea is ground into a very fine powder. It is a true tea made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant. It is full of antioxidants and contains properties that can help boost your metabolism, detoxify your body, and promote an “alert calm.” Matcha has become increasingly popular for its many health benefits and unique flavor

What You’ll Need to Make Matcha

Fortunately, making matcha is fairly simple and requires only two main ingredients. To start, here is what you need.

• High-quality matcha powder: The quality of the matcha powder greatly influences the taste, so always choose a premium one.
• Hot Water, but not boiling water: The ideal temperature is about 175°F (or about 80°C). ( You can even try cold brewing matcha!)
• Matcha Whisk, or chasen: While not compulsory, a traditional bamboo whisk helps to fully incorporate the tea with the water and break up any clumps. Whisking will also create a lovely frothy top. If you don’t have one, a milk frother, shaker bottle with a whisk ball, or even a blender will do the job.
• Tea Bowl, or chawan: Any wide-rimmed bowl will do.

Steps to Make Matcha, Matcha Green Tea Recipe

Warm up Your bowl and bamboo whisk: Start by running hot water over your bowl to warm it up. If using a bamboo whisk, soak in water for about 2 minutes to loosen the prongs.

Sift your matcha – Use a small sieve to sift matcha powder into your bowl. This helps prevent clumps.

Add water – Pour hot water into the bowl.

Whisk – Whisk briskly in a zig-zag motion until frothy. This should take about 15-30 seconds.

Enjoy – Your matcha is ready to enjoy! Drink it straight from your bowl or pour it into a teacup.

What is Ceremonial Grade Matcha?

Ceremonial grade matcha is the highest quality of matcha. It’s made with leaves from the very first flush, and you can tell by its vibrant green color. It has a delicate, sweet taste that makes it perfect for drinking straight up without adding anything to it. Ceremonial-grade matcha is often used in traditional Japanese tea ceremonies, but you can also use it to make delicious lattes and other drinks at home. 

Grades of Matcha

When shopping for matcha, you’ll come across various grades. The two main ones are culinary grade and ceremonial grade. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Culinary Grade Matcha – This is the most affordable option and is often used in cooking or baking recipes. It is a lower-quality matcha powder and has a slightly more bitter taste, so it’s best to mix it with other ingredients.
• Ceremonial Grade Matcha – This is the highest quality matcha and has a vibrant green color, is perfectly smooth with no grit, and no bitter aftertaste. It’s perfect for making traditional drinks or enjoying it in an iced latte.

Tips for Making the Perfect Cup of Matcha

• Use filtered water – Water quality directly affects the taste of matcha, so always use filtered or bottled water.
• Heat your utensils – Before making matcha, warm up your bowl and whisk with hot water. This keeps everything at the same temperature and the cold bowl will not quickly lower the water temperature. 
• Use an electric kettle- If you have one, use it to check the temperature of your water for accurate results. 
• No need to over-whisk. Once your matcha is free from clumps and a foamy top has formed, your tea is ready to drink.
• Experiment with the ratio – Start with 1 teaspoon of matcha powder per 8 ounces of water, then adjust the ratio until you find the taste that’s right for you.

Matcha has a sweet earthy taste to it. While good quality matcha won’t taste bitter you still may want to add a bit of milk or sweetener to it. 

If you’re looking for something natural, honey and agave syrup are great options. You can also use dairy-free milk such as almond or oat milk. For a special treat, try adding a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon. 

For hot drinks, you may also add ginger, cardamom, nutmeg, or other spices to the tea for an extra kick of flavor.

How to Make Matcha Taste Good

However you like it, matcha is an amazing beverage that’s packed with health benefits and delicious flavor!

Try this Iced Matcha Latte or Matcha Chai Latte for more matcha drink recipe ideas.

How to Make Matcha without a Whisk

Not everyone has a traditional matcha whisk or needs one. You can still make perfect matcha tea without a bamboo whisk. Here are some tips on how to make matcha without a whisk: 

• Use a handheld frother instead of the traditional bamboo whisk. It works well and is easy to use. 
• Use a blender or food processor for frothing.
• If these tools are not available, after sifting matcha into a bowl, use a regular spoon and whisk vigorously in a circular motion.

Health Benefits of Matcha

Aside from its delicious taste, Matcha has a range of health benefits. It’s packed with antioxidants and can help boost metabolism, improve concentration, and may help lower blood pressure and bad cholesterol. Studies have even shown that drinking matcha regularly can lower cholesterol levels! 

Health Risks of Matcha

While matcha is generally considered safe to consume, it does contain caffeine which can cause insomnia and have other adverse effects for those who are sensitive. It’s also important to note that the benefits of drinking matcha come from consuming a moderate amount.

Making Matcha Your Way

Matcha is incredibly versatile, so feel free to make it your own! Add a bit of honey for sweetness, or vanilla extract for added flavor. 

If you’re looking for more recipes using matcha consider making this easy Matcha Latte or Matcha Cookies!

Did you know that matcha can also be used in baking and cooking? Matcha has a wonderful umami flavor that compliments so many dishes sweet and savory alike.

How to Store Matcha

Once opened, matcha powder tends to lose its flavor and nutrients over time. For the best quality, store it in an airtight container in a dry, cool place. 

Why You’ll LOVE Matcha Tea!

• Matcha is delicious and healthy
• Super easy to use and make in a variety of recipes
• Full of health benefits

How to Make Matcha

Remember that matcha is flexible. To adjust its taste, you can add more hot water for a thinner tea or use less water for a thicker consistency. If you prefer it sweeter, feel free to add honey or a sweetener of your choice. And if you want to cool down, simply pour your prepared matcha over a glass of ice for a refreshing iced matcha tea. Enjoy the process and make it your own!

Have you ever had matcha before? What did you think of it? Let us know in the comments below! We’d love to hear from you!