How to make matcha tea?
Matcha is finely powdered green tea leaves that are grown under cover before harvest. After harvesting, the leaves are processed in factories to create powder. This tea has been an important part of the Japanese tea ceremony for centuries and is very popular in Japan. In recent years, matcha has been gaining more and more supporters around the world. Despite this, many people still do not know how to properly prepare and enjoy this unique tea. In this article, we will provide basic information about matcha, including how to find the right equipment and pottery for brewing it.
More about matcha
Matcha tea leaves are grown under cover (for about three weeks). After harvesting, the leaves are steamed to stop the oxidation of the leaves and thus preserve the tea's nutritional value. After the leaves are reticulated and initially dried at low temperatures, the leaves are finely ground under heavy stone mills. This laborious process preserves the unique flavor and aroma of matcha tea. In addition, the precious antioxidants caffeine and L-theanine are preserved in the matcha powder.
More information below.
What is matcha?
If you are curious about how to prepare matcha tea, what are its health benefits and what tools are needed to prepare it, then I invite you to read on!
Matcha Tea Equipment
To get started with matcha, you’ll need these key items:
- Tea: Choosing a good matcha is essential, it should have a strong green color with more blue tones than yellowish (preferably from Japan).
- Vessel : Matcha is best prepared in a Chawan (matcha bowl). It is characterized by high walls and a wide flat bottom.
- Bamboo whisk : In other words, Chasen will be great at whisking matcha powder with water.
- Chashaku : A spoon for measuring grams of matcha.
- Chakoshi : A tea strainer helps break up clumps, but is not essential for making matcha. A bamboo whisk should be sufficient.
Ciaba offers not only delicious matcha, but also a carefully selected range of kitchenware. We invite you to take a look.
How to make matcha (step by step)
- Heating the vessel : First, pour boiling water into the Chawan vessel and pour it out. Then, prepare water that is 80℃
- Measuring matcha : Using a Chashiaku (bamboo spoon), measure 2-3g of matcha.
- Sift : Use a sieve to remove any lumps of matcha powder.
- Pour in : 60-80ml of previously prepared warm water.
- Whip : Lifting it slightly in the water, making quick W-shaped movements. Whip the matcha powder until it forms a characteristic foam at the top of the tea.
- Serving : Drink matcha tea directly from the cup and enjoy its complex flavor and smooth texture. We recommend a little sweetness to balance the flavor.
Tips for beginners
- For the best taste experience, start with a high-quality matcha.
- Vary the water temperature and matcha to water ratio to find your own preferred green tea flavor.
- Bamboo brooms should be lightly soaked before use (preferably in warm water) and washed immediately after use. Proper storage is essential (stand, dry).
- Practicing the proper technique (lifting the whisk slightly above the bottom) for whisking matcha will get rid of any lumps and produce a beautiful, uniform foam.
In addition to the traditional way of consuming matcha
While the traditional way of preparing matcha tea provides the purest experience, there are many other ways to enjoy this wonderful tea:
- Matcha Latte: matcha tea with milk, giving it a mild, creamy flavor.
- Iced Matcha: Shake in a bottle with cold water or milk to create a refreshing summer drink.
- Culinary uses: You can add matcha to baking, smoothies, and even cooking. With its unique flavor and intense color, matcha can add completely new flavor notes to your dishes.
Making matcha tea is not as difficult as it may seem. With the right tools and techniques, you will soon be able to make the perfect matcha. The key to perfect matcha is high-quality ingredients, proper preparation. To enjoy the full flavor and pleasure that this unique tea offers.