Matcha: green tea at its very finest

We think matcha is the king of green teas. And here’s why…Matcha is a high-quality Japanese green tea, most famous for its role in the Japanese tea ceremony. We are glad to say, though, that you won’t need to travel to Japan to try it. You can buy matcha green tea right here, in our online shop.
As a powdered green tea, matcha is bursting with the goodness that occurs naturally in the leaves of the tea plant. With a bit of help from a matcha whisk, the tea completely dissolves in water. Which means that, when you drink a cup of matcha tea, you imbibe the tealeaf itself – nutrients and all.

How is matcha tea produced?
Matcha is made from the newest shoots of the tea plant, which are shaded from direct sunlight at an early stage of development. This slows down the growth of the tealeaves, increases the levels of amino acid and caffeine, and results in a tea that is much sweeter and darker than regular green tea. When these high-quality leaves are picked, they are steamed in the usual way to halt oxidation. Then, they can either be rolled to produce gyokuro tea, or laid out flat to dry into what is known as ‘tencha’. It is from these tencha leaves that matcha green tea is made: they are de-veined and de-stemmed, before being ground into a fine powder.

Why is matcha tea so good for you?
The answer to this is simple: by consuming the tea leaves themselves, you consume all of their vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Absolutely nothing goes to waste. So, if you thought loose-leaf green tea was good for you, give matcha a try. We think you’ll be pleasantly surprised. 

When should I drink matcha tea?Matcha’s high caffeine content makes it a perfect morning drink. Have a cup first thing, to give you a boost (and lift your spirits) for the rest of the day. We think of matcha as the green tea equivalent of an espresso – so avoid drinking it last thing at night!

Is matcha tea expensive?
The price of matcha reflects its fine quality – which is to say that it does come at a price. The good news, though, is that a small amount of matcha will go a very long way. 

How do I make a cup of matcha tea?
To have a Japanese tea ceremony of your own:.      Set up your matcha utensils, which normally comprise a tea scoop (chashaku), a bamboo whisk (chasen) and a tea bowl (chawan). If you don’t already own these utensils, our matcha gift set contains all the equipment you will need. Or, you could simply use a teaspoon, a small whisk or coffee frother, and a small bowl or mug respectively.      Warm the bowl and whisk, by standing the whisk in the bowl and adding hot water.      Discard the water, and put 2/3 teaspoon of matcha tea into your matcha bowl.      Add hot water – ideally at 80ºC .      Whisk the liquid well with your matcha whisk, until the powder has dissolved and a fine foam appears on the surface.      Pour the tea into your matcha cup.      Take a sip or two, and enjoy the energy rush!

Why not be inventive?
Matcha tea is versatile, and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Why not try it cold, mixed with yoghurt, fruit juice or milk? Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, why not put your culinary skills to the test? Matcha can be used as an ingredient in a variety of recipes – creating a talking point, as well as a mouthwatering treat.

28th January 2011

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