Matcha tea - effects, preparation and recipes

Origin & special features of matcha

Matcha is much more than just green tea - it is at the heart of a centuries-old Japanese tea culture. Its origins date back to the 12th century, when Buddhist monks brought the plant from China to Japan and integrated the powdered tea into their meditation rituals. To this day, matcha is a symbol of mindfulness, calm and conscious enjoyment. Unlike conventional green tea, the whole tea leaf is consumed in the form of the finest powder, which is what makes matcha so special.

Before harvesting, the tea bushes are shaded for several weeks. This process increases the chlorophyll content, which gives the tea its intense emerald green color. At the same time, the amino acid content increases, especially L-theanine, which gives the tea its pleasantly sweet and mild taste and emphasizes the characteristic umami note. Only the tender young leaves are harvested, steamed, dried and freed from stems and veins. This leaf material, known as tencha, is ground particularly slowly into the finest powder in traditional granite stone mills.

This elaborate process explains the high value placed on matcha: each cup represents craftsmanship, patience and care. The quality can be recognized at first glance - strong green, silky-fine structure and a balanced fragrance. Matcha combines tradition and modernity, as it is appreciated both classically in the tea bowl and creatively in smoothies, lattes or desserts. This makes it not just a drink, but a versatile cultural asset with an unmistakable character.

Preparation step by step

The traditional preparation of matcha follows fixed procedures and reflects Japanese tea culture. In order for the powder to develop its full flavor, high-quality utensils and a little rest are crucial. A bowl (chawan), a bamboo whisk (chasen) and a small bamboo spoon (chashaku) form the basis. These tools enable the fine foam formation that is typical of a good matcha.

First, rinse the bowl with hot water so that it warms up. Then add one or two bamboo spoons (approx. 1-2 grams) of matcha. Ideally, the powder should be passed through a fine sieve to avoid lumps. Then add around 60-80 milliliters of water that has cooled to around 80 °C - water that is too hot would bring out bitter substances.

Now the most important step begins: vigorous whisking with the bamboo whisk. In quick, loose movements - usually in the shape of an "M" or "W" - the matcha is whisked until frothy. After around 15-20 seconds, a bright green, creamy surface appears. This foam is a sign of quality and ensures a harmonious mouthfeel. The finished matcha is enjoyed immediately - pure, intense and with a unique umami taste.

Effect & nutrients

Matcha is not only a special experience in terms of taste, but also impresses with its nutrient profile. As the entire tea leaf is absorbed in powder form when drinking, the absorption of valuable ingredients is particularly intensive. Matcha naturally contains caffeine, but this is released more slowly in combination with the amino acid L-theanine. As a result, matcha has an invigorating effect without the well-known "caffeine low" that many people are familiar with from coffee.

In addition to caffeine and L-theanine, matcha provides a variety of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin K, iron and potassium. The catechins it contains, a special group of polyphenols, are also particularly noteworthy. These antioxidants are responsible for the intense green color and have been valued for centuries for their positive properties. Catechins help to neutralize free radicals in the body and are an integral part of traditional Japanese nutrition.

Many tea drinkers also report an increased ability to concentrate and a clearer focus after drinking matcha. The combination of gentle stimulation and mental calm also makes the drink interesting for meditation and longer periods of work. At the same time, Matcha can also be a conscious ritual in everyday life thanks to its fine umami taste experience - a moment of mindfulness that appeals to both body and mind. Matcha thus combines enjoyment, tradition and valuable ingredients in a single drink.

Recipes with matcha

Matcha is versatile and can be enjoyed far beyond classic tea. Thanks to its intense aroma and bright green color, it adds a special touch to drinks, desserts and even savory dishes. Matcha is no longer just appreciated in the Japanese tea ceremony, but also in modern kitchens around the world.

A popular classic is the matcha latte. The frothed matcha is combined with warm milk or a plant-based alternative such as oat or almond milk. The result is a creamy, slightly sweet drink that is ideal as a gentle coffee substitute. If you like it refreshing, you can also try a matcha iced latte - here the tea is simply infused with ice cubes and cold milk.

Matcha is also very popular in patisserie. Cakes, muffins and cookies with matcha impress with their striking color and delicate taste. Matcha cheesecake or matcha tiramisu are particularly popular and are visually and tastefully impressive. Matcha can also be integrated into smoothies: Together with banana, spinach and a little yogurt, it makes a nutrient-rich, green power drink. Matcha is a real all-round ingredient that combines enjoyment and creativity.

Product recommendation Matcha

If you want to immerse yourself in the world of matcha, you need not only high-quality tea but also the right accessories. At Tea & Co, you will find carefully selected products to help you get started. The quality of the tea itself is particularly important: Only the finest matcha from Japan guarantees the creamy taste and intense green color that makes this drink so special. The preparation is just as important - a traditional matcha whisk helps to froth the powder evenly and achieve a velvety consistency.

Whether you want to enjoy matcha on its own or try it out in recipes, our product selection offers you the ideal basis. The combination of premium tea and classic accessories makes the preparation not only authentic, but also a small ritual. Discover how versatile Matcha can be used and experience the pleasure of this unique tea of the highest quality with Tea & Co.

Organic Japan Matcha

Our organic Japan Matcha is cultivated in traditional growing areas and impresses with its fine sweetness, creamy texture and bright green color. Ideal for classic preparation or creative recipes - a premium tea for connoisseurs and beginners alike.

Discover now

Matcha broom

The traditional matcha whisk made from bamboo is the indispensable tool for perfect preparation. With its fine bristles, it ensures that the matcha powder combines perfectly with the water to create a creamy, frothy tea - just as the Japanese art of tea is intended.

Discover now

Tea & Co - quality, variety and passion for tea

Matcha is just one example of the great variety that Tea & Co has to offer. Our range includes carefully selected teas from the best growing regions in the world - from classic black and green teas to aromatic blends and gentle herbal teas. The focus is always on quality, authenticity and an incomparable taste experience. Each variety is selected with dedication and checked to the highest standards. Discover the whole world of tea at Tea & Co and be inspired by our passion for enjoyment. Because tea is not just a drink - it is an experience.