WHAT IS MATCHA?

BUYING AND STORING MATCHA

Matcha is best enjoyed as soon as possible after its production. Since matcha is a ground tea, any exposure to oxygen will immediately start to degrade the color and flavor of tea. If stored sealed in a cool, dark place it can stay fresh for several weeks and up to a few months (unlike dried tea leaves which can last for up to a year or two). To ensure you’re getting a fresh matcha worth sipping, buy it from a reputable company that can tell you when and how the tea was processed and packaged. Ask your tea purveyor for directions on how to brew the best cup of that particular variety of matcha.

PREPARING MATCHA

Matcha is prepared differently from a typical brewed tea and is very easy to make if you have the right tools.

Step 1: Bring 100 mg (about 1/3 cup) filtered or spring water to a boil. Remove from heat and let cool for 2 to 3 minutes.

Step 2: Place 1/2 teaspoon matcha powder in a small bowl. Add a splash of the hot water and mix with a bamboo whisk to form a smooth paste.

Step 3: Add remaining water to bowl and stir with the bamboo whisk, flicking the whisk back and forth, until matcha is incorporated and you get a thin frothy foam on top.

Step 4: Sip, savor, and enjoy.

TIPS

• If you don’t have a bamboo whisk, use a spoon or small wire whisk—you just won’t get much of the frothy texture traditionally prepared matcha is known for.

• Don’t be tempted to pour boiling water over matcha; you will scorch the ground tea powder and it will become bitter and astringent.

• Use 1/4 cup water for a thicker matcha or 1/2 cup water for a thinner version.

• Replace water with your favorite milk (regular, coconut, almond, soy) for a latte.

• Pour the just prepared matcha over a glass full of ice for an iced tea version.