What is Matcha?

Matcha is a Japanese Green tea, made from finely powdered dried tea leaves. Unlike regular Green tea, Matcha tea bushes are shielded from sunlight for about 20-25 days before harvest. This process prompts an increase in Chlorophyll levels, turning the leaves darker and also increases the production of amino acids. Additionally, since the whole leaf powder is ingested, Matcha is high in antioxidants as well. In terms of taste, this high-quality Green tea has grassy, bitter notes and can be enjoyed with a sweetener and/or milk. The backbone of the culturally rich, Japanese tea ceremonies, the tea is cherished for both, its nutritional value and its robust flavour.

A step by step guide to enjoying Matcha:

Here’s what you’ll need-

1. Matcha powder
2. A handmade bamboo whisk (called chasen)
3. A tea bowl (called chawan)
4. Ice

STEP 1 ADD MATCHA POWDER TO BOWL Measure 2 teaspoons of your Matcha powder and sieve it into your bowl. This helps in preventing any clumps and making your tea light and frothy.
	STEP 2 ADD WATER Add 60 ml of hot, clean water in the bowl.
STEP 3 WHISKING Using your whisk, start whisking to combine the tea and allow some air particles into the drink. Whisking is done best in an ‘M’ or a ‘W’ formation with gentle hands.
	STEP 4 GENTLY SHAKE BOWL Lift the bowl with both hands and give it a very gentle shake in a circular motion to allow flow of air. This will ensure a creamier, smoother and richer drink.
STEP 5 SERVE Once the tea obtains a bright green colour, pour your Matcha from the bowl into a teacup and enjoy it hot. You can also enjoy this matcha iced! Just take a glass full of ice as per your preference, and pour the Matcha from the bowl into your glass.
	STEP 6 ENJOY Drink up! It's best to drink it right after it's prepared or the powder will begin to settle at the bottom.

Keep in mind, Matcha can be prepared in several consistencies- Standard, Usucha (thin) and Koicha (thick). Discover your ideal consistency and flavour and enjoy!