How to use matcha powder? 7 ways to use it

Introduction

Matcha tea has become a popular drink amongst those who want to add another flavor dimension to their day. Packed with good things like antioxidants, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals, its velvety richness and moderate level of caffeine makes it a more gentle way to achieve your daily buzz. Steeped in an expansive and descriptive history—journeying from China to Japan during the Song Dynasty—this traditional tea ceremony staple has found its way into morning rituals across the world.

What is Matcha Powder?

Matcha powder is the ground-up leaves of Camellia sinensis, the same plant used to make green tea. Although they stem from the same origins, their cultivation differs at the end of the growing process.

To create the vibrant green powder, the Camellias are grown in shade a few weeks before harvest to pump up the chlorophyll and prevent the amino acids from breaking down. Leaves are then steamed to stop the oxidation process, before being separated from their roots and stems to be slowly stone-ground to three grade levels.

Ceremonial Grade: This needs to have been shaded for at least 15 days, ground at the lowest temperatures and into the smallest micro particles to produce the smoothest and most delicate brew.

Premium Grade: Although not as high quality as ceremonial grade, this grade has low bitterness and is great for everyday drinking.

Culinary Grade: This is mainly used in ice cream, smoothies, and cooking, with more bitterness than the higher grades.

A seasoned matcha drinker will be able to tell the difference in quality based on color, texture, and flavor. Matcha powder requires a lot of deliberate attention, time, and love to create—do each cup justice with our matcha brewing tips.

Shop our Ceremonial Matcha: 

Did You Know?

It takes about an hour to grind 30 grams of matcha powder!

Before You Brew: How Much Matcha Powder Per Cup?

We recommend somewhere between ½ - 1 teaspoon of matcha powder per cup, depending on how strong you like your brew. The final taste will depend on the grade, in addition to where the Camellia sinensis in your cup was grown. The amounts below are just a guide, so have a play around to see what tastes right for you. After all, tea is about nourishing the soul and savoring something special for yourself, so you’ll be the best judge of how much matcha you want to use.

How to Make Matcha Tea

Are you a traditionalist? Forgo the milk and sweeteners and lean into the traditional method with this simple recipe.

1. Swill a little hot water in a cup or bowl and discard.
2. Add ½ a teaspoon of Matcha Sunday Ceremonial Grade Matcha Powder and 150 ml/5 fl oz of 80°C (176°F) water, and blend using a bamboo matcha whisk in an M shape until frothy on top.
3. Savour slowly.

How to Make Iced Matcha

If you prefer a cool pick-me-up, iced matcha is the perfect way to get creative!

For an Iced Latte:

1. In a cup or bowl, add ½ - 1 teaspoon Matcha Sunday Ceremonial Grade Matcha Powder to a dash of 80°C (176°F) water.
2. Whisk into a smooth paste in an M shape using a bamboo matcha whisk, adding sweetener if you desire.
3. Top with ice and milk of your choice, stir well, and enjoy!

For a Matcha Soda:

1. In a cup or bowl, add ½ - 1 teaspoon Matcha Sunday Ceremonial Grade Matcha Powder to a dash of 80°C (176°F) water.
2. Whisk into a smooth paste in an M shape using a bamboo matcha whisk.
3. Add sparkling water, ice, lemon, and mint to the matcha instead of milk for a refreshing soda.

How to Make a Matcha Latte

For a creamy drink that will warm your insides and delight your taste buds, try a matcha latte.

1. Heat and froth 150 ml/5 fl oz milk of your choice.
2. In a cup or bowl, add ½ - 1 teaspoon Matcha Sunday Ceremonial Grade Matcha Powder, a little of the heated milk, and whisk in M shape with a bamboo matcha whisk to get a smooth paste.
3. Add the rest of the milk and stir well, sweetening if desired.

Matcha Powder Recipes

Matcha powder isn’t just for tea. Its unique flavor profile makes it a versatile ingredient in various culinary applications. Here are a few recipes to help you incorporate matcha into your daily routine:

Matcha Smoothie:

Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon Matcha Sunday Ceremonial Grade Matcha Powder
• 1 banana
• 1 cup almond milk
• 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup
• A handful of spinach (optional)
• Ice cubes

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a blender.
2. Blend until smooth.
3. Pour into a glass and enjoy!

Matcha Pancakes:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup flour
• 1 tablespoon Matcha Sunday Ceremonial Grade Matcha Powder
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 cup milk
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients.
2. In another bowl, combine the milk, egg, and melted butter.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and pour ¼ cup of batter for each pancake.
5. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook until golden brown.
6. Serve with your favorite toppings.

Matcha Ice Cream:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• ¾ cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon Matcha Sunday Ceremonial Grade Matcha Powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan, heat the milk and sugar until the sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and whisk in the matcha powder.
3. Add the heavy cream and vanilla extract.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
5. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Transfer to a container and freeze until firm.

Benefits of Matcha Powder

Matcha is more than just a tasty beverage. Here are some of the health benefits associated with matcha powder:

Rich in Antioxidants: Matcha is loaded with antioxidants, including catechins, which help fight free radicals in the body.

Boosts Metabolism: Matcha can help increase metabolism and burn calories.

Detoxifies the Body: The chlorophyll in matcha helps detoxify and cleanse the body.

Enhances Mood and Concentration: The amino acid L-theanine promotes a state of relaxation and well-being, improving mood and concentration.

Provides a Natural Energy Boost: The combination of caffeine and L-theanine provides sustained energy without the jitters associated with coffee.

How to Store Matcha Powder

To maintain the freshness and quality of matcha powder, proper storage is essential.

1. Keep it Cool and Dry: Store matcha in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat.
2. Refrigerate if Possible: If you don’t use matcha frequently, consider storing it in the refrigerator to extend its shelf life.
3. Use Fresh Matcha: For the best flavor and health benefits, use matcha within a few months of opening the package.

Conclusion

For a full flavor hit that nourishes body and soul, you can’t go past matcha powder. Make it part of your daily tea ritual and explore its versatility in various recipes. Whether you’re enjoying a traditional matcha tea, a creamy matcha latte, or a refreshing iced matcha, you’re not only indulging in a delicious drink but also reaping numerous health benefits. Embrace the matcha trend and discover the myriad ways to incorporate this vibrant green powder into your life.

Visit our website: Matcha Sunday.