Matcha is becoming more and more popular worldwide in a wide variety of forms, but not many people know what a crucial role preparation and the right accessories play in making the perfect matcha. Would you like to prepare a perfectly rounded matcha latte or know what delicious creations you can also prepare with matcha? That's exactly what we'll be taking a closer look at in this article, along with our best tips for your perfect matcha breakfast.
Discover delicious porridge creations from Verival
The traditional matcha ceremony in Japan
Matcha comes from Japan and is still celebrated there today in the form of a ceremony. Matcha is a powdered green tea. With the so-called “chanoyu” or “sado”, the Japanese embody a deep appreciation of tea, hospitality, simplicity and aesthetics. The special custom is also a spiritual and cultural experience for many tourists, in which respect, mindfulness and harmony are paramount.
In most cases, the ritual takes place in a very simple and aesthetic space. The host prepares the necessary utensils before the guests arrive and warms them up. When the green tea has reached the perfect consistency through careful preparation and skill, the tea is offered to the guests.
In Japan, it is extremely important to accept objects that are presented to you with both hands – this also applies to the prepared green tea. It is also a sign of respect that something comes from the heart and is accepted as such. Once the bowl has been accepted, you can drink from it and celebrate the uniqueness of the tea.
The right accessories for preparing matcha: matcha bowl, bamboo whisk, etc.
To develop the perfect consistency and flavor, you need the right accessories for preparing matcha. In Japan, it is said that the choice of accessories reflects the personality of the host.
Matcha powder as the basis
The most important accessory is, of course, the matcha powder itself, often called “Japanese gold”. To get the full flavor experience, a great deal of importance should be placed on the quality of the matcha. Here, attention should be paid to the country of origin (Japan), a vibrant and, above all, intense color, a rather sweet smell or a silky soft texture. In addition, the matcha powder should be certified organic to avoid contamination with harmful substances.
Bamboo spoon
A small bamboo spoon, which the Japanese call “chashaku”, is used to ensure the perfect amount and dosage of the powder. It is best to start with half to a whole bamboo spoon of matcha.
Matcha bowl
The powder is then added to the bowl, also called “chawan”, which has been previously warmed with hot water. Each bowl made of ceramic or porcelain is unique. The shape, color and decoration are different for each bowl, which symbolizes the irregularity and beauty of imperfection. To allow frothing, each bowl has a certain depth.
Bamboo whisk
The next essential matcha accessory is the so-called “chasen”, a special bamboo whisk. The bamboo whisk has many thin bristles and helps to whip the powder evenly. It can also be used to create a frothy surface.
During preparation, the focus should always be on precision and care in order to achieve the desired flavor.
The perfect starter test for your matcha
How to prepare matcha like a pro
Not only the right accessories are important for preparing matcha, but also the process itself. The matcha accessories must always be clean and dry to start with. Depending on your preference, the next step is to experiment with the amount of powder, i.e. the strength, to achieve the desired effect.
First step: warm the bowl and add the powder
Pour the heated water into your dry chawan together with the finely sieved green tea powder. To avoid a bitter taste, it is extremely important that the water is not allowed to boil, but has already cooled to 80°C.
Step two: Whisk the matcha powder to create foam
Once the water and matcha powder are in the bowl, it is now time to process them carefully. To do this, it is best to use your matcha whisk and move it in a “W-shaped” motion through the mixture. If you do this for about 15-20 seconds, the powder should already get a creamy and frothy surface. Then your matcha powder is perfectly frothed.
Third step: how to enjoy matcha
If you want to enjoy your Matcha in the traditional Japanese way, take a few small sips of water at short intervals before drinking the finished Matcha to neutralize the palate. In Japan, Matcha is generally drunk pure, but you can dilute your green tea with (plant-based) milk and sweetener to make a so-called Matcha Latte.
How to integrate matcha into your diet
The consumption of tea, which was once only drunk as a beverage, has expanded to include many other varieties. For this reason, there are now many recipes and ideas for how matcha can be incorporated into our diet, in addition to the most common form of tea.
Preparation of matcha latte
Probably the best-known preparation method is the matcha latte. This is the same preparation as for tea, except that instead of water, frothed (vegetable) milk and sometimes sweetener are used.
Matcha smoothies:
If you like drinking smoothies, you can also get your healthy dose of antioxidants by adding a teaspoon of matcha powder.
Matcha snacks to try:
If you prefer your matcha in edible form, matcha energy balls, biscuits, waffles or muffins, for example, are a great alternative to sweet snacks and can be made vegan or gluten-free as you wish.
Especially in the colder winter months, matcha is also ideal as a soup seasoning. The best results are achieved with an Asian-flavored powder and soup.
If you value a healthy lifestyle and a balanced diet, combining porridge and matcha for breakfast is an absolute game-changer. Porridge not only has top nutritional values, but is also prepared in no time. It is also ideal as meal prep for working people or students. Find out how to prepare overnight oats with matcha in the following recipe.
As you can see, matcha can be prepared in a variety of ways. It is particularly easy to incorporate matcha into your breakfast. Whether it's a matcha latte, porridge, smoothie, overnight oats or energy balls.
Frequently asked questions
How do I prepare matcha properly?
You need a matcha bowl, a bamboo whisk and high-quality matcha powder. Mix 80°C hot water with the powder and stir with the matcha whisk until a creamy and slightly frothy liquid is formed.
How long should I steep my matcha?
Matcha does not need to steep like tea leaves. Since Matcha powder is already ground, it can be prepared directly in a bowl and enjoyed immediately.
How do I measure my Matcha correctly?
You can measure Matcha yourself to different strengths. Experiment until you find the flavor intensity that is best for you. More powder results in a stronger flavor, while less powder results in a milder matcha tea. Generally, you can start with half to a whole bamboo scoop of matcha. If you already have a lot of experience with matcha, you can also use up to 2 bamboo scoops of green tea powder.
Has the preparation of matcha changed over the years?
Traditional methods are still used, but more modern approaches have also been added. Matcha used to be ground by hand in stone mills and whipped with hot water. Today, matcha is often ground by machine and used in a variety of ways, such as matcha lattes and baked goods, to offer a wider range of taste experiences.
What are the effects of matcha?
The caffeine it contains provides a gentle energy boost that lasts longer than coffee and is not associated with nervous side effects. It has a revitalizing effect and increases our concentration, while the L-theanine in matcha simultaneously supports relaxation and thus reduces stress.
What is the best way to store my matcha powder?
To keep your matcha powder fresh, flavorful, and colorful, it's best to store it in a cool, dark, dry place. Avoiding direct sunlight and humidity is also very important.
What is so special about matcha?
This high-quality green tea powder made from ground tencha leaves is rich in antioxidants and chlorophyll. It is traditionally used in Japanese tea culture and, thanks to the L-theanine it contains, offers a unique combination of invigorating effects and soothing relaxation.
