What Is Matcha? A Beginner’s Guide.
Matcha is more than just a trendy drink — it’s a centuries-old tradition packed into a vibrant green powder. But what exactly is matcha, and why are so many people swapping out their morning coffee for it?
What is Matcha?
Matcha is a finely ground powder made from specially grown and processed green tea leaves. Unlike regular green tea, where you steep the leaves and remove them, matcha involves consuming the whole leaf. That means you get all the benefits, flavor, and nutrients in one smooth cup.
A Brief History
Matcha's origins date back to Tang Dynasty China, but it became central to Japanese tea ceremonies during the 12th century. Buddhist monks began drinking it to stay calm, clear, and focused during long periods of meditation. Eventually, the ritual and reverence surrounding matcha grew into a symbol of presence, mindfulness, and respect.
How Matcha Is Made
Creating quality matcha is a delicate and labor-intensive process:
Shade-Growing: Tea plants are covered for 3–4 weeks before harvest to boost chlorophyll and L-theanine.
Hand-Picking: Only the youngest, most tender leaves are selected.
Steaming & Drying: Leaves are steamed to prevent oxidation, then air-dried.
De-Stemming & Grinding: Stems and veins are removed, and the leaves are ground into a fine powder using traditional stone mills.
This meticulous process preserves the vibrant green color, smooth texture, and rich nutrients.
What Makes Matcha Special?
Unlike brewed tea, with matcha, you're consuming the whole leaf. That means more flavor, more nutrients, and more benefits per cup:
Flavor: Smooth, umami-rich, slightly grassy, with a natural sweetness.
Nutrition: Full of antioxidants, amino acids, and energizing compounds.
Ritual: A mindful preparation that invites you to slow down.
How to Make Matcha (2 Ways)
Traditional (Ceremonial):
Sift 1 tsp matcha into a bowl.
Add 2 oz hot water (not boiling).
Whisk in a zig-zag motion until frothy.
Matcha Latte:
Mix 1 tsp matcha with 2 oz hot water.
Add 6 oz steamed milk (oat, almond, dairy).
Optional: Add honey or maple syrup.
Storing Your Matcha
Keep in an airtight container.
Store in the fridge for freshness.
Use within 2–3 months of opening.
FAQs
Is matcha safe during pregnancy? Yes, in moderation (1 cup per day), but consult your doctor.
Does matcha have sugar? Not naturally. Matchū matcha is 100% pure with no additives.
Can I bake with matcha? Absolutely! Matcha adds flavor and color to cookies, cakes, and smoothies.
Why Matchū?
We source only ceremonial-grade matcha from small farms in Japan. Our matcha is shade-grown, stone-ground, and always fresh. We created Matchū to bring intention back into daily life, and give you a clean, calm energy ritual worth looking forward to.
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