Embracing the Tradition of Matcha
Long before it became a popular drink among Instagram influencers and trendsetters, matcha tea had a rich history rooted in Zen Buddhist practices. Centuries ago, Zen monks discovered that matcha tea enhanced their meditation sessions, providing clarity, focus, and a sense of well-being. Today, matcha is celebrated as the ideal morning or afternoon beverage, offering a balanced caffeine boost without the jitters often associated with coffee.
The Art of Making Matcha
The preparation of matcha tea is a ritual deeply embedded in Japanese culture. This practice ensures a perfect cup and serves as a mindfulness exercise. The calming nature of making matcha transforms it from a mere beverage into a meditative experience, ideal for starting your day with tranquillity. Each step in preparing matcha invites you to romanticise your mornings, savouring each sip as a moment of beauty and mindfulness.
How to Prepare a Matcha Latte
To create a delightful matcha latte at home:
- Add half to one teaspoon of matcha powder to a bowl.
- Add a small amount of water to create a thin paste, then whisk vigorously in a ‘W’ or ‘M’ motion until frothy and vibrant green.
- In a separate glass, add ice and your favourite milk (oat milk is a popular choice), along with a sweetener like honey, maple syrup, or vanilla syrup.
- Pour the matcha mixture over the milk and stir to combine.
Understanding Matcha
Matcha is a finely powdered green tea made from specially grown and processed tea leaves. Its slightly bitter, vegetal taste and vibrant green colour result from high chlorophyll levels. Unlike regular green tea, where the leaves are steeped and discarded, matcha involves consuming the entire leaf, offering more significant health benefits. Matcha is rich in antioxidants, which can help lower blood pressure, reduce the risk of heart disease, and boost metabolism. Despite having more caffeine than regular green tea, matcha provides a steady, calm energy without the sudden rush and crash associated with coffee.
Choosing the Best Matcha Powder
When selecting matcha powder, you’ll encounter two main types: ceremonial and culinary grade. Ceremonial-grade matcha, made from the youngest tea leaves, is smoother and more expensive. After testing various matcha powders, Ippodo Tea Ummon became a favourite for its rich, earthy flavour with minimal bitterness, making it perfect for lattes and traditional tea preparations.
Tips for a Perfect Matcha Experience
- Shelf Life: Matcha has a short shelf life. For optimal colour and flavour, use it within two months of opening it and store it in the fridge.
- Whisking: Invest in a bamboo whisk (chasen) for the best frothy texture. If unavailable, a regular whisk or electric milk frother can suffice.
- Sweetening: If the grassy, umami flavour is too strong, add a touch of honey or maple syrup to your matcha.
Essential Tools for Your Matcha Station
This set includes everything needed for a traditional Japanese tea ceremony:
- A stoneware matcha bowl (chawan)
- Bamboo whisk (chasen)
- Whisk holder
- Bamboo scoop (chashaku)
- Tea sifter
- A step-by-step preparation guide
It’s perfect for both matcha enthusiasts and newcomers.
2. Kitchen Rack-Counter Storage Organizer
A two-tier riser that provides easy access to your matcha tools and powders, adding a warm, contemporary feel to your kitchen countertop.
3. Glass Oil Bottle with Gold Stopper
Enhance your countertop display with this stylish bottle, ideal for storing flavoured syrups like rose and lavender for special lattes.
It is a must-have, with its chic design, variable temperature control, and quick heating time, making it a standout in any kitchen.
5. Small Glass Containers with Wood Lid
Perfect for storing and showcasing matcha stick packs, adding a cosy touch to your matcha station.
6. Stoneware Sugar Canister with Wood Lid
This airtight container keeps your matcha latte mix fresh. It has a stylish look that can be customized with a jade leaf sticker.
Clear and sleek, these containers neatly fit matcha latte tins, enhancing the aesthetic of your matcha station.
8. Matcha!
Stock up on various matcha products, from ceremonial tins to matcha latte mixes and green tea bags, to suit any mood.
Add a minimalist, clean look to your matcha station with customizable labels for your syrup flavours.
10. Aerolatte 004 Milk Frother
Create delectable lattes at home with this milk frother. It is suitable for both dairy and non-dairy milk options and quickly whips up foam in 30 to 60 seconds without electricity.
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Enhancing Your Morning Ritual
Creating a matcha tea station at home transforms your morning routine into a serene and mindful experience. With the right tools and practice, you can enjoy matcha tea’s rich tradition and numerous benefits, setting a positive tone for the rest of your day.
