What is Matcha? Is it just green tea powder?

Matcha tea is a type of green tea that is made from shade-grown tea leaves.  In green tea production, there is a special technique called "covering", it is used for increase the L-theanine and chlorophyll which give tea a darker green colour and stronger taste than "un-covered" green tea. 

The leaves are being Steamed, Dried and Stone-ground into a fine powder. Traditionally, matcha powder is prepared by adding hot water and whisking with a special bamboo whisk and bowl until it’s frothy and smooth. 

"Umami" is a common world for describing high-grade Japanese green tea. If the tea hits the right spot, you will experience mildly saltiness, a almost meaty and miso soup like taste. Some people also called it "savory". It's a totally different taste experience than any other tea .

How to easily prepare Matcha ?

The super fine powder does not really dissolve in hot water, this is one important reason why you need a bamboo whisk, blender or electric whisk to prepare it. You will experience unpleasant bitterness from the big clumps of tea powder when using a teaspoon to “stir”. 

Matcha is so concentrated, you only need a small amount to enjoy the benefits. You only need one teaspoon (or more precisely, 1.5g of powder) per day. 

Origin of Matcha

Matcha tea originates from Japan, where it has been used in religious and ceremonial settings for centuries. Japanese monks combined matcha into their meditation ritual and spiritual practices. Tea has been always treated as a medicine, or even a drink for longevity and a secret of youth.

Let’s move the scene to our modern days, matcha is becoming increasingly popular in the western world due to its unique flavour and health benefits. 

Health Benefits of Matcha Tea

Matcha contains more antioxidants than other teas, and it has been shown to improve focus and concentration. If you've never tried green tea before, Matcha is a great place to start. 

Studies have shown that matcha can help improve focus and concentration, and it is also a good source of antioxidants and caffeine. With the combination of L-theanine and caffeine, you can experience the same alertness from caffeine -- but last much longer without feeling awful after caffeine withdrawal. 

The high concentrated nutrients in matcha green tea have been shown to improve focus and concentration, boost metabolism, and promote healthy skin and hair. Matcha tea is also rich in antioxidants, which are believed to promote overall health and well-being, just like why our ancestors enjoyed matcha and any other tea. 

There is one important takeaway for all tea drinkers. All camellia sinensis tea (non-floral or herbal) contains L-theanine and chlorophyll, including black tea and oolong, not just in matcha and green tea.

How to choose Matcha?

If you are interested in trying matcha, there are many different options available for purchase online or in stores. Japanese Ceremonial grade matcha is the highest quality matcha available and is typically reserved for special occasions, but it can also be enjoyed on a daily basis. Buy matcha online today and start enjoying all of its benefits! 

But if you usually add milk (we highly recommend oat milk) and sweeteners into your tea, you can choose the cocktail grade or premium grade, the cost of those are much less than ceremonial grade while still having similar health benefits.