Matcha is one of the oldest teas in Japan. Only a few tea farmers master the art of matcha production.
Organic Matcha Green Tea Powder Matcha has a centuries-old tradition in Japan. Four weeks before the harvest, the tea plantations are covered and the tea leaves receive their typical fine taste due to the associated slow growth. For the Organic Matcha Tea Premium only the finest, young leaves with their valuable ingredients are used. After removing the leaf veins, the leaves are gently dried and ground in granite stone mills. For an organic matcha tea, only the highly finely ground tea leaf with its valuable ingredients is used.
But did you know that matcha – its more sophisticated version – contains even more nutrients and antioxidants? Well, I have been using it for as long as I can remember and I can personally tell you that it`s loaded with antioxidants and it`s super healthy! Today, many health gurus swear by it. Also, it can be addictive. Do you want to know why many people are addicted to matcha? In this BLOG you will learn everything you want to know about this luxurious green tea.Matcha is a refined green tea from Japan. For centuries, this top product was only available to the privileged classes. It is grown and processed in such a way that the highest quality is obtained: from fresh and young tea leaves, which are traditionally picked by hand (tencha). 2 to 5 weeks before harvest, 90% of the tea bushes are shaded by tarpaulins. Due to the lack of sunlight, the leaves additionally produce chlorophyll and amino acids for compensation. This also justifies the deep green color and the mild taste. The tencha are ground into matcha, an ultrafine green powder that contains no stems or leaf veins, but only leaf
Why is Matcha so Healthy?
Matcha has been shown to support fat burning and thus weight control, strengthens natural defenses, protects cells from free radicals and improves blood circulation and overall vitality. Matcha protects cells from free radicals because it is so rich in antioxidants (tannins, polyphenols, catechins). The chlorophyll contained in matcha, in turn, binds harmful metals in your body, which are subsequently excreted. So it detoxifies your body. The great advantage of matcha is also that it has the benefits of caffeine: you become more attentive and energetic, but without nervousness.
When is the best time to use Matcha
- Before exercise. Matcha will help you burn extra calories and is good for your endurance.
- At work or studying. Matcha is good for your concentration, it has a positive effect on learning ability and memory. It also helps to relieve stress.
Warning: Limit yourself to a maximum of 4 cups daily and avoid enjoying matcha after 4pm. Because matcha contains tein, it can prevent you from falling asleep if you consume it too late in the day.
- Good matcha comes from Japan and South Korea
- A good matcha is soft, creamy and subtle in taste.
- Typically, a good matcha is a bit more expensive because the production process is very labor-intensive. You pay an average of 25 to 50 euros per 100 g for a good matcha.
- High quality Matcha is fine and soft. Lower quality is coarser and contains more grains.
- Poor quality is often added sugar or dyes.High quality matcha has no additives.
- Good quality matcha is of light green color.
How to Prepare Matcha
Matcha Tea
You can prepare matcha in several ways. The best known is the tea. Put 1-2 grams (half a teaspoon) of powder in a bowl and use bamboo whisk to avoid lumps. Add 1 cup of warm water (max. 80ºC). Then whisk it for for 20-30 secs to a frothy liquid.
Matcha Latte
Add 1 tsp matcha in a bowl, add a tablespoon of warm water and mix it with the bamboo whisk or blender to a smooth paste. Then add 60 ml of water at 80ºC and stir with the whisk with a brisk movement to create a frothy layer. Beat the milk (almond, coconut or rice milk), add it to the matcha. Add cinnamon, cardamon or nutmeg (optional). Add Manuka honey to taste.
Drink to your leisure.
Matcha Green Tea Smoothie is perfect for a light and healthy breakfast!
1 Mango
2 tsp Matcha powder
Helpful Tips
- Not all matcha is created equal. Buying matcha for the first time can be confusing – there are so many brands, and they vary widely in quality. I always advocate looking for one with no added sugar. Beyond that, the most significant distinction is between ceremonial and culinary grade matcha. The ceremonial kind will be pricier – it’s made from the youngest tea leaves and has a mellow flavor. Choose it if you plan to drink your matcha with just water. Otherwise, less expensive culinary matcha should do the trick. Its flavor is more bitter, which balances well in lattes or desserts. Have you tried Zalina`s MySuperfoods Matcha – it’s great quality, but it’s still affordable.
- It doesn’t last forever. Matcha doesn’t have a particularly long shelf life. Once you open it, use it within 2 months for the best color and flavor. I recommend buying it in small quantities and storing it in the fridge to preserve freshness.
- You might want a matcha whisk. If you make matcha often, I recommend investing in a bamboo whisk called a chasen (pictured here). Its special design breaks up clumps and creates a frothy layer of foam on top of the tea. If you don’t have one, use a regular whisk or an electric milk frother instead. Whisking or stirring with a fork or spoon will not work here.
- Sweeten to taste. Matcha’s grassy, umami flavor can be an acquired taste. If you’re new to making it, don’t hesitate to add a few drops of maple syrup or honey. You also might want to sweeten your tea if your matcha powder is particularly bitter.
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