Tea Spotlight: Matcha Green Tea

Tea Profile:

• Matcha tea is a finely ground, powdered green tea originating from Japan. It is crafted from shade-grown tea leaves, which enhances chlorophyll production and boosts the leaves’ vibrant green color.
• Matcha is set apart from other green teas with its ceremonial significance and the consumption of the entire tea leaf, as opposed to traditional steeped tea.

Flavor Profile:

Taste Characteristics:

• The classic matcha brew has a distinctive, rich, and umami flavor. Unami translates to ‘savory taste’ in English. The complexity of the flavor can be likened to dark chocolate or the undertones of almonds.
• The common flavor profiles of matcha include a balanced combination of umami, sweetness, and a trace of slight bitterness, presenting a vibrant and velvety green tea experience.

Aroma Characteristics:

• Evokes the essence of sun-kissed leaves

Color Characteristics:

• Depending on the quality of matcha and how it is prepared and stored, the hue of tea can range from a deep emerald green to a light, vibrant green.
• Color is an indicator of the tea’s freshness and quality.

How to Brew:

Tools and Ingredients:

• Matcha Powder
• Bamboo Matcha Whisk (Chasen)
  • Alternatives:
    • Fork
    • metal whisk
    • Handheld Milk Frother or Emersion Blender
• Matcha Bowl (Chawan)
  • Alternatives:
    • A bowl wide enough to whisk in but comfortable enough to drink out of
• A tablespoon or a matcha bamboo scoop (Chashuku)
  • Alternatives:
    • A dinner spoon (Fun Fact: When leveled off, a dinner spoon and tablespoon are approximately the same in measurements)
• Small Sifter
  • Alternatives:
    • use a fork or spoon to remove clumps in powder before adding water
• Water preheated to around 175°F (80°C).

Brewing Steps:

1. Measure about one tablespoon of matcha powder into a bowl.
2. Use a sifter or a fork to remove clumps from the powder.
3. Add 1-2oz or 2-4 tablespoons of water. Once you get the hang of things, experiment with your matcha-to-water ratios.
4. Whisk for 15-30 seconds or until matcha is fully dissolved and a frothy foam layer forms on the top.
5. Enjoy!

---

Suggested Sweeteners:

• Natural Sweeteners: Agave, Monk, Maple Syrup, or Honey
• Plant-based dairy: Almond, Oat, or Coconut Milk

Suggested Variations: