Matcha Love

Green Tea Elevated

Over the past few years I have noticed more and more coffee shops and restaurants offering a beverage called matcha. At first, I was resistant to this strange green drink and so I decided to learn more about it. Turns out, matcha is not as mysterious as I originally believed, it is simply powdered green tea leaves whisked in water. It is a traditional beverage from Japan, one that was actually served to samurai in an extensive ceremony.

Green tea has been widely studied for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), the main phytonutrient has been shown to reduce inflammation, support brain health, and reduce the action of free radicals in the body. When drinking a regular cup of green tea, you are consuming the steeped tea leaves, which provides some antioxidant benefits. However, when drinking matcha, you are consuming the entire tea leaf, which provides a much more concentrated source of these compounds. Additionally, matcha is high in amino acids and chlorophyll, which gives it the brilliant green color. The main amino acid is L-theanine, which increases serotonin, dopamine, GABA, and glycine in the brain. Combined with the light caffeine content, you will experience both sustained focus and ease of mind.

The process of making matcha is different than steeping a bag of green tea leaves. Traditionally, a bamboo spoon, whisk, and bowl are used. First one cup of water is heated to 175 degrees, the bamboo spoon scoops roughly ½ tsp of matcha powder which is placed in the bowl with a splash of water. Using the whisk, make a “W” motion in the bowl until a paste is formed. Then pour in the remaining water and whisk until frothy. Sip directly from the bowl or transfer to a mug. These steps are important to maintain both the flavor and potency of the leaves. Water over 175 degrees will damage the polyphenol content and reduce the effect of EGCG. Additionally, the flavor will become bitter and less enjoyable.

Personally, I like my matcha creamy like a green tea latte. Additionally, I like to start the day off with some healthy fats for sustained energy. By combining creamy coconut butter and MCT oil, I found this matcha “latte” keeps me focused and satisfied for hours. Below is my go to matcha recipe, hope you enjoy it as much as I do!

1 cup Filtered Water

½ tsp Plain T Matcha Powder

1 tsp Organic Coconut Butter

½ -1 tsp MCT Oil (start low and build your way up)

¼ tsp Ground Cinnamon

Heat filtered water to 175 degrees, place in blender with all ingredients and blend for 30 seconds or until frothy. Sprinkle with cinnamon and enjoy immediately.

Plain T Matcha and assorted teas are all available at our Water Mill office.