Who doesn't adore a grounding cup of matcha? Pairing up my teas and other beverages with seasonal flowers and herbs is something that has always brought me so much joy, adding a touch of in-the-moment mindfulness and aesthetic pleasure to daily life.
Matcha History:
Matcha, a vibrant green tea powder, has a rich history dating back to the Tang Dynasty in China, but it wasn't until the 12th century that the matcha we know today began to take shape. Zen Buddhist monks brought the tea to Japan, where it was transformed into a finely ground powder used in the traditional Japanese tea ceremony, or chanoyu. This practice, deeply influenced by Zen principles, emphasised mindfulness, simplicity, and the beauty of imperfection, elements that remain central to the matcha experience.
One of the most notable figures in the history of matcha is the Japanese monk Eisai, who wrote about the health benefits of tea in his book "Kissa Yojoki" (Book of Tea). Eisai's teachings highlighted the mental clarity and calmness that matcha could provide, making it a vital part of meditation practices. Over the centuries, matcha has evolved from a ceremonial beverage into a popular everyday drink, celebrated not only for its unique flavour but also for its remarkable health benefits...
Matcha's Benefits:
Matcha is rich in antioxidants, particularly catechins like EGCG, helping to combat free radicals in the body, reducing the risk of chronic diseases and promoting overall health. The calming amino acid L-theanine, also found in matcha, works in synergy with caffeine to enhance mental alertness and focus without the jittery side effects often associated with coffee. This combination makes matcha an excellent choice for those looking to boost their productivity and maintain a calm, focused mind, just avoid consuming matcha on an empty stomach as this can often lead to nausea.
Matcha also supports detoxification and boosts metabolism. The chlorophyll content aids in detoxifying the body by helping to eliminate heavy metals and toxins. Its multifaceted benefits, from promoting heart health to improving skin condition, make matcha a truly holistic beverage.
In essence, matcha is more than just a tea; it's a bridge between ancient traditions and contemporary wellness. Its rich history and myriad health benefits continue to make it a beloved staple in the lives of many, offering a moment of tranquillity and a boost of vitality in every earthy cup.
Matcha Recipe:
You'll need:
- 1 teaspoon matcha powder
- 1/4 cup hot water
- 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based like almond, soy, or oat milk)
- 1-2 teaspoons sweetener (such as honey, sugar, or maple syrup), optional
How To:
- Sift 1 teaspoon of matcha powder into a bowl or a mug. This helps prevent clumps and ensures a smooth texture.
- Pour 1/4 cup of hot water over the matcha powder.
- Using a bamboo whisk (chasen) or a small regular whisk, whisk the matcha and hot water together in a zigzag motion until the matcha is fully dissolved and a froth forms on the surface. This should take about 20-30 seconds.
- In a small saucepan, gently heat 1 cup of milk over medium heat until it is warm but not boiling. Alternatively, you can heat the milk in a microwave-safe container in the microwave.
- If you have a milk frother, use it to froth the heated milk until it is creamy and has a layer of foam on top. If, like me, you don't have a frother, you can whisk the milk vigorously by hand or use an immersion blender to achieve a frothy consistency. Even putting the warm milk into a tub/bottle and shaking it creates the same results, just be careful when opening the container as the hot milk may splash on you!
- Pour the frothy milk into the matcha mixture. Stir gently to combine. If desired, add 1-2 teaspoons of your preferred sweetener and stir until dissolved. I always like to foam up a bit more of the matcha milk and add it on top if it's not foamy enough.
- Your matcha latte is ready to enjoy! Garnish with some edible flowers of choice for added aesthetic bliss (I used magnolia petals)! Sip slowly and savour the smooth, rich flavours of this comforting beverage.
Note: You can even make it cold with ice and honey or syrup drizzled around the glass. Be creative and let your imagination enlighten your eating/drinking rituals!
This recipe is perfect for a cosy morning or an afternoon pick-me-up. Drink up the earthy, taste of matcha combined with the creamy texture of milk for a delightful and healthy treat. Enjoy!