Matcha tea, a bright green tea powder, has captivated the world with its unique taste, centuries of tradition and health benefits. Originating in Japan, matcha tea has become a global phenomenon, inspiring a matcha culture that goes beyond traditional tea ceremonies.
How is Japanese matcha different from South Korean matcha?
The process of making matcha in South Korea is the same as in Japan. Camellia senensis tea plants are grown in the shade, harvested (by hand or by machine, depending on the type of matcha and the scale of production), steamed, dried and ground into a fine powder to produce matcha. The rich volcanic soil of South Korea’s Jeju island, combined with the subtropical climate and dense fog, create ideal conditions for the growth of high-quality tea. The main difference with Korean matcha is that the plantations receive natural shade from the mountain slopes and fog. In Japan, tea plantations are artificially covered to provide shade for at least 20 days before harvesting, which gives the leaves dark green chlorophyll and high levels of L-theanine, a naturally occurring amino acid. In South Korea, the plantations are naturally coloured by the landscape and climatic conditions, resulting in a matcha with a paler green colour and a slightly grassy flavour.
Premium Japanese matcha
Making Japanese matcha is a careful process. As mentioned above, the leaves are grown in the shade for a few weeks before harvesting, which enhances the bright green colour and increases chlorophyll and amino acid concentrations. The peeled leaves are steamed, dried and carefully ground into a fine powder using granite stone mills.
The health benefits of machia
Matcha has gained immense popularity due to its many health benefits. As a powdered green tea, matcha retains all the nutrients found in the tea leaves, making it a potent source of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals.
The main health benefits of matcha
a. Rich in antioxidants – Matcha is fortified with catechins, especially epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which have strong antioxidant properties. These antioxidants help fight oxidative stress and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
b. Promotes metabolism and weight management – studies show that matcha can help speed up metabolism and promote fat oxidation, making it a popular choice among those who want to control their weight.
c. Improves concentration and calmness – matcha contains the amino acid L-theanine, which can help you relax and improve mental clarity without causing drowsiness. This unique combination of L-theanine and caffeine in matcha provides a long-lasting and concentrated energy boost.
d. Supports cardiovascular health – regular consumption of matcha improves heart health by lowering bad cholesterol (LDL) and promoting better blood circulation.
e. Detoxifies the body – the high chlorophyll content of matcha helps the body’s detoxification process, helping to remove harmful toxins and heavy metals.
Matcha’s journey from ancient ceremonial rituals to a modern healthy lifestyle has cemented its place as one of the most famous drinks around the world. This green tea powder continues to fascinate with its rich history, cultural significance and undeniable health benefits. Enjoy every sip of this beautiful sparkling drink!
The art of machia preparation
The preparation of matcha is not just a simple infusion like regular tea. Instead, it involves a unique ritual known as the “Chanoyu” or Japanese tea ceremony. The ceremony emphasises attention, respect and aesthetic appreciation. Matcha powder is whipped in hot water with a bamboo whisk called a ‘chasen’ until the green tea is frothy and velvety. The calm process of preparing and tasting matcha is an essential part of the process.
Recipe for matcha tea:
Place 1/2-1 teaspoon of matcha (1.5 g) in a cup or matcha bowl (the wide bottom of the bowl makes it easy and convenient to whisk the matcha in water and quickly extract the foam) and fill up to 50 ml or 100 ml of hot water (80 °C). Rinse the matcha until your bowl is filled with a perfect jade-green foam in about 20 seconds. Now you can add more water if you want your matcha to be less strong.
For best results, the whisk should be soaked in hot water before use.
Macha Chai Latte
Add warm or boiled plant milk (or whisked) to the already prepared matcha to taste. You can add any sweetener, such as coconut sugar, maple syrup. Cinnamon, vanilla or cocoa powder can be added to spice up the taste.
This café-style luxury matcha latte can be prepared in 5 minutes.
Sources:
www.healthline.com
www.pinnaclematcha.com
NOTE. The information contained herein should not be construed as a recommendation for treatment or other health issues.
We encourage you to make personal decisions about your personal health, taking into account a wide range of sources of information.
