Last Updated on Aug 31, 2024 by Happy Dieter
Matcha green tea has taken the world by storm, and for good reason. Unlike other teas, matcha is incredibly versatile and is used in everything from cold drinks and lattes to smoothies, oatmeal, and even baked goods like doughnuts and cookies. To help you maximize the benefits of this superfood, we’ve compiled nine expert tips to ensure you get the most out of your matcha green tea experience.
Key Takeaways
- Matcha green tea offers numerous health benefits when prepared and consumed correctly.
- Choosing high-quality matcha from Japan ensures you get the best taste and nutritional value.
- Proper preparation, including using warm water and portion control, enhances your matcha experience.
1. Choose the Right Quality
Opt for ceremonial grade or premium matcha for the best experience. With the rise in popularity, many grades of matcha have appeared, some with added sugars. These should be avoided. Culinary grade matcha is primarily used for coloring and doesn’t taste as good when brewed into tea.
2. Be Sure It Originated from Japan
Most of the matcha on the market is culinary grade, and packaging regulations are lax, meaning that some products labeled “ceremonial grade” may not be. To ensure quality, look for premium grade matcha sourced from Japan.
3. Check the Color Before You Buy It
High-quality matcha is bright, vibrant, and almost fluorescent green due to its high chlorophyll content, a result of how it’s grown. This color is a good indicator of freshness and quality.
4. High Quality, High Price
Top-quality matcha is not cheap. Expect to spend between $20 and $150 for 20 to 30 grams of matcha powder. While the price may seem steep, the difference in taste and quality is noticeable.
5. Use Warm Water, Not Boiling
When preparing matcha, use warm water (between 150-170°F) rather than boiling water. Boiling water can make the tea taste bitter. Blend the powder using a whisk, preferably a special matcha whisk made from bamboo. Adjust the quantity of matcha powder per cup to suit your taste.
6. Make Cold-Brew Matcha If You Have a Cheaper Version
If you’re trying matcha without investing in the highest quality, make cold-brew matcha. Pour the tea over ice—the chilled temperature will reduce bitterness, making even lower-grade matcha taste better.
7. It’s Much Stronger Than Regular Green Tea, So Don’t Drink It in the Same Amounts
With matcha, you’re consuming the entire tea leaf, which is dissolved in water like coffee. This means you’re getting about nine times more nutrients than with regular green tea. Keep this in mind when dosing; too much of even the healthiest things can be harmful.
8. It Can Replace Coffee
Matcha soothes you while providing energy, making you feel like you’ve had coffee but without the side effects. This is due to the combination of caffeine and L-theanine, which work together to boost cognitive performance. Unlike coffee, matcha offers a prolonged energy boost as L-theanine is released slowly.
9. Drink It Slowly, Letting It Linger in Your Mouth
Japanese dentists suggest that matcha tea can be used as a mouthwash because it helps stop the bacteria that cause plaque. A study also found that people who regularly drink matcha have fewer periodontal problems.
Conclusion
Whether you’re new to matcha or looking to deepen your appreciation, these tips will help you make the most of this versatile green tea. From choosing the right quality to experimenting with different preparation methods, matcha green tea offers a unique and beneficial addition to your diet.
FAQs
Q: What is the best quality of matcha to buy?
A: Ceremonial grade or premium matcha from Japan is considered the best quality. Avoid lower grades with added sugars or those intended mainly for culinary use.
Q: Can I use boiling water to prepare matcha?
A: It’s best to use warm water (150-170°F) rather than boiling water. Boiling water can make matcha taste bitter and ruin the delicate flavors.
Q: How does matcha compare to regular green tea?
A: Matcha is much stronger than regular green tea because you consume the entire leaf. This means you get about nine times more nutrients from matcha than from brewed green tea leaves.
Q: Can matcha really replace my morning coffee?
A: Yes, matcha can replace coffee, providing a more prolonged and steady energy boost without the jittery side effects associated with coffee.
Q: Why should I let matcha linger in my mouth?
A: Letting matcha linger in your mouth can help reduce plaque-causing bacteria, acting as a natural mouthwash and promoting better oral health.
