You may have seen our matcha tea pass by on our timeline or in our webshop. But how did matcha suddenly become so popular? What is it exactly and why is matcha healthy? You will find the answers to these questions in this blog.
The origin of matcha
Matcha is a Chinese powder and has therefore been a well-known type of tea in China for centuries. Matcha tea was brought from China to Japan by Japanese monks, and its popularity grew rapidly there. Subsequently, this unique tea spread across the world, and today we can no longer imagine our healthy lifestyle without it.
All types of tea are made from one specific tea plant, the Camellia sinensis. The same applies to matcha. However, in the process, matcha is shaded with cloths for about 3 to 4 weeks before the harvest, which gives the chlorophyll production a boost. Have you ever wondered how that beautiful green color is created? Or where the sweet umami flavor comes from? This is caused by shading the plant!
Why is matcha healthy?
Unlike regular tea, where the leaves are infused and then discarded, with matcha you actually consume the entire tea leaves. This means you get all the nutrients the leaves have to offer.
We list two health benefits of matcha below.
Matcha is packed with antioxidants
Matcha is packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Think of calcium, potassium, vitamins A and C, iron, and protein. In fact, experts say that 1 cup of matcha tea is equal to 10 to 15 cups of regular green tea in terms of nutrients.
How can you use matcha?
Would you like to experience the health benefits of matcha yourself? You can use matcha in various ways!
Matcha tea
The most traditional way to consume matcha is as tea. Scoop half a teaspoon of matcha powder into your cup and add a small splash of cold water. Whisk with a matcha whisk until all lumps have dissolved, and then add 100 ml of water. According to experts, 80 degrees is the best temperature, so let boiling water cool down for a moment before adding it.
Then whisk again with a matcha whisk until a small layer of foam forms.
Matcha latte
Add matcha powder to frothed milk (or a plant-based milk of your choice) for a delicious and creamy matcha latte. This way, you can also enjoy the benefits of matcha in a smoother, milky version.
Matcha smoothies
Add a teaspoon of matcha powder to your favorite smoothie recipes for a healthy boost. Combine it with spinach, banana, and almond milk for a delicious green smoothie.
Matcha desserts
Give desserts such as ice cream, cakes, cookies, and waffles a healthy twist by adding matcha. It not only gives a beautiful green color but also a subtle and refined flavor.
Matcha is therefore not just any tea; it is a powerful source of antioxidants and other fine nutrients. Whether you drink it as matcha tea, incorporate it into a latte, or add it to your favorite recipes, matcha can be a valuable addition to your daily routine.
