Matcha Tea

28th April 2017 by Grzegorz DACKO 0 Comments

Matcha powder, a pure form of green tea, likely originated in China, though Japanese restaurants often serve it. The Thai highly favor it and often incorporate it into ice cream, drinks, cakes, and even Kit Kats (…I know). Don’t forget about a Matcha face mask! My morning ritual always includes a cup of Matcha tea. It not only brims with antioxidants but also delivers a caffeine fix without the unpleasant aftertaste or breath caused by coffee. People can obtain this product from the internet, local health shops, or oriental food stores. Keep in mind that it can be quite pricey. I always buy it from Cafe C, Teapot – my favorite teashop in Leeds market.

There are various ways to prepare Matcha tea. Here are my favourites:

1) Drink like your usual morning “pick me up”.

Ingredients:

1/2ts Matcha powder

250ml. Hot water preferably 70-80 Celsius

Instruction:

Add Matcha powder and hot water in your favourite tea cup /mug
Whisk gently, slowly, back and forth motion with bamboo matcha chasen #bamboo matcha whisk for approx 1 minute. Remember it’s not just about the final product. To create a lovely cup of Matcha tea, involve this calming ritual.
Whisk a bit quicker for further 15 seconds. Then sit down, keep calm and enjoy.

Tips: If you haven’t got a bamboowhisk, try extra small wooden spoon or 2 wooden chopsticks. Sorry, it’s hardly fancy with these kitchen tools isn’t it?

2) Drink like an espresso

I must say, I am not a big fan of this method but it’s a good alternative if you haven’t got lots of time. Ultimately, this is a pure shot of antioxidants which will benefit your health.

Ingredients:

1/2ts Matcha powder

80ml. Hot water preferably 70-80 Celsius

Instruction:

Add Matcha powder and hot water in measuring jar or a big mug
Use the electric frothier to mix the drink well. By the way, it will not become foamy like cappuccino!
Transfer into espresso cup – ready to be served.

*And please remember the drink still be very hot!*

It is recommended that, if you have a sweet tooth, the drink should be paired with a super sweet bite-sized snack such as Turkish delight, marshmallow, or dried fruit, instead of adding sugar.