Did you know that Matcha powder is one of the oldest and most famous teas globally? Its origins can be traced back to China, where it was used as a medicine. Today, millions enjoy Matchas for their unique flavour and health benefits. But what is matcha powder, and how is it made? Read on to learn more about this exciting tea, what is matcha powder, and the origins of matcha.
The origins of matcha
Matcha is a type of green tea that has been around for centuries. It has a long history in China and Japan. Matcha was initially used in religious ceremonies by Buddhist monks. Over time, it became popular among the Japanese samurai warrior class as a way to stay alert during battle. In the 12th century, matcha was introduced to Japan by a Chinese monk named Eisai.
Matcha is traditionally used in Japanese tea ceremonies to create vibrant green and frothy tea. It is one of the most expensive types of tea in the world. This kind of tea originated during the 14th century as a way for Zen Buddhist monks to preserve their energy levels and stay awake during long periods of meditation. They also drink this tea for the health benefits matcha provides.
To this day, it is still used in traditional tea ceremonies. They choose the specific ceremonial matcha powder for these special occasions as it is higher quality than that everyday matcha.
What is matcha?
The leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant are used to make matcha. It differs from regular green as it is specially grown to be shade-grown for three weeks before harvesting, imparting the umami flavour. This type of shade-growing process prevents photosynthesis (the creation of sugar). This matcha powder has a mellow sweetness instead of a bitter aftertaste like some cheaper brands.
The entire tea leaf can be used in matcha production. The leaves are harvested during the early spring when they are still green and soft, then dried. Afterwards, they are steamed and cleaned to remove the veins from the leaves.
What is matcha powder?
In the next process, after steaming and drying, the leaves will undergo either stone grinding or machine processing to produce a fine powder. The stone mill slowly grinds the leaves, preserving their flavour and nutrients. The powder is then stored in airtight containers until ready to be used.
Matcha green tea powder is a finely ground, bright emerald-green tea. Unlike other green teas, matcha is made by grinding whole leaves into a super-fine powder. When you drink matcha, you’re consuming the entire leaf, not just an infusion of the leaves in water. As a result, matcha is packed with nutrients and antioxidants.
What are the different types of matcha powder?
There are many different types of matcha powders on the market, all with varying costs. Matcha comes in various grades, and the higher the grade, the more expensive and superior in quality. The method used to prepare it also determines its quality. Powdered matcha is available in two forms, high-grade powder and low-grade powder.
The first classification is ceremonial grade and culinary grade. Ceremonial grade matcha is the highest quality, most expensive type of matcha powder. It is made from shade-grown tea leaves that are hand-picked and ground into a fine powder. The powder is a vibrant green colour with a mellow, sweet flavour.
The second-highest grade of matcha powder is culinary grade matcha. It’s made from shade-grown tea leaves ground into a fine powder and has a bright green colour with a somewhat astringent flavour.
The next classification is organic and non-organic. Organic matcha is made from tea leaves that were grown without the use of pesticides or herbicides. The powder is a bright green colour with a slightly bitter flavour.
Non-organic matcha is from tea leaves that were grown with the use of pesticides and herbicides. The powder is a dark green colour with a strong, bitter flavour.
The last classification is matcha from Japan and matcha from China. Matcha from Japan is made from tea leaves grown in the shade for three weeks before harvest. The powder is a vibrant green colour with a mellow, sweet flavour. You’ll find that the quality is higher, nutritionally better, and, unfortunately, higher in price.
Matcha from China is made from tea leaves that were not grown in the shade. The powder has a duller tone, a less umami flavour, and a bitter flavour.
How to choose the right type of matcha powder
The type of matcha powder you choose should depend on your intended use. If you are looking for a powder to use in baking or cooking, the culinary grade will be fine. If you are looking for a powder to use in a smoothie or latte, then the ceremonial grade will be better. If you are looking for a powder to use in a detox tea, the organic matcha will be the best choice.
How to use matcha powder?
Only a small quantity of matcha is required when preparing a cup of matcha. The powder is whisked with hot water to create frothy tea. Matcha tea has a grassy, vegetable taste.
In baking and cooking, matcha powder may be used. It’s possible to make matcha pancakes, waffles, ice cream, and even cookies with it. It can be added to many recipes to add a distinctive taste and a lovely green hue.
For those wondering, matcha green tea tastes like a slightly vegetal and grassy green tea. It has a smoothness making it easy to drink, even for people who don’t generally like drinking teas.
Why has matcha become so popular?
Matcha has become popular in recent years because it is a healthy drink that tastes great. It is made from high-quality leaves and contains antioxidants and nutrients that are good for you. Matcha tea is also lower in caffeine than coffee and can be enjoyed any time of the day.
The powder may be included to enhance recipes’ taste and nutritional value. Matcha is a versatile powder that may be used in various ways. Try it in your next cup of tea, or use it to enhance your favourite cookie recipe.
Wrap up
Matcha powder is a unique and exciting tea that millions have enjoyed for centuries. So, what is matcha powder? Matcha is a finely ground green tea made from the Camellia sinensis plant.
Unlike other teas brewed with water, matcha is whisked with hot water until it forms a thick and frothy beverage. Matcha powder contains high antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy choice for drinkers. It has a unique flavour that can be enjoyed on its own or added to recipes.
If you’re looking for a healthy and delicious tea to enjoy, give matcha a try today!
