What is Matcha

What is Matcha?

Matcha is finely ground powder of specially grown and processed green tea leaves.

It is special in two aspects of farming and processing: The green tea plants for matcha are shade-grown for three to four weeks before harvest, and the stems and veins are removed during processing. During shaded growth, the plant Camellia sinensis produces more theanine and caffeine.

Matcha used for a beverage is referred to as ceremonial-grade, meaning that the powder is of a high enough quality to be used in the tea ceremony and a very fine powder. Lower-quality matcha is referred to as culinary-grade, and is used in cooking or smoothies it is usually not as fine of a powder and can be gritty when used for a beverage.

Possible Benefits of Matcha Green Tea

Antioxidants

A benefit to Matcha is the high concentration of antioxidants. One study found that Matcha has 137 times the polyphenols (notably, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG)) than regular green tea.

Weight Loss

EGCG, found in high concentrations in Matcha, has been shown to increase the rate of burning stored fat as energy, as well as decreasing the formation of new fat cells. Other studies have shown that the catechins in Matcha increase the body’s rate of calorie burning each day and offered additional fat burning benefit during exercise.

Energy

The L-Theanine in green tea is known to help stimulate alpha brain waves. These waves are known for their ability to help increase focus and concentration. Combined with the caffeine in Matcha you get a sustained energy boost.

To prepare Matcha you will need a bamboo whisk, this will give you the frothy consistency to the beverage.

I recommend starting with filtered boiled water that has cooled to 180F/82C

Put a ½ teaspoon of your Matcha power in a bowl, add a small amount of your hot water (1- 2 ounces)

start to whisk,

once blended add a bit more water

(you can also add warm milk if you like) for a total liquid of 8 -10 ounces. 

You may sweeten if desired.

To make a latte froth your milk.

Check out my Instagram for a video @teaonthe45th

TEA U Again

Marc