Matcha is a finely ground powder made from specially processed shade-grown green tea leaves. Unlike other teas that are steeped and then discarded, matcha powder is whisked into hot water and fully consumed, giving it a vivid green color and a unique strong umami flavor. Key points about matcha:
- It is made from young green tea leaves that are shaded for several weeks before harvest, which boosts chlorophyll and amino acid content, giving matcha its bright green color and complex taste.
- The production involves steaming, drying, and grinding the leaves into a very fine powder.
- Matcha is traditionally used in Japanese tea ceremonies, where it is prepared and drunk as a hot tea.
- Besides drinking, matcha powder is used in various foods like ice cream, lattes, mochi, and noodles.
- Because you consume the entire leaf as a powder, matcha contains higher concentrations of antioxidants, caffeine, and amino acids compared to regular green tea.
- It offers sustained energy and mental focus benefits, thanks to caffeine balanced by the calming amino acid L-theanine.
There are different grades of matcha, from ceremonial (highest quality for drinking) to culinary (used in cooking and beverages). The unique production and preparation process set matcha apart as both a cultural ritual and a healthful beverage choice. In short, matcha is a type of green tea powder known for its vivid color, rich flavor, and health benefits stemming from consuming the whole tea leaf in powdered form.
