How to Make Matcha the Traditional Way

In Japan, matcha has had a long history associated with the formal tea ceremony (Sadō or Chadō). Matcha differs from regular green tea in that whole tea leaves are powdered and consumed, instead of only tea leaves being steeped in hot water. This gives a much richer, deeper taste and greater health benefits.

The traditional Japanese tea ceremony revolves around the preparation, serving and drinking of matcha. The elaborate, elegant ceremony has been refined over thousands of years by tea masters schooled in the way of zen. The ceremony involves a variety of tools from the bamboo whisk and spoon, to art, flower arrangements and even incense. If you have the opportunity to experience a traditional ceremony, we highly recommend it! Check out our guide to preparing your own bowl of traditional matcha tea.

Matcha tools

The above tools can be used to prepare your own matcha tea at home. At the very minimum you’ll need a bamboo whisk (chasen), a bowl (chawan) and some matcha powder – preferably ceremonial grade for the best quality.

The other tools are optional extras, but can really enhance the experience and make it more like a traditional tea ceremony. We trust Yunomi to provide fresh and authentic matcha direct to you from Japan.

Steps to make traditional matcha

1. Gather your tea tools and boil 1/2 cup of water.
   
2. Place 2 scoops of matcha powder in your tea strainer and sift into the bowl (or place straight into the bowl if you don’t have a strainer). Pour in boiling water to fill 1/4 – 1/3 of your bowl (depending on the size).
   
   
3. Quickly whisk the matcha side to side with your matcha whisk, until a layer of froth (very small bubbles) covers the whole surface (1-2 mins). The froth will be a vibrant light green colour.
   
   
4. Enjoy your matcha! Matcha is traditionally drunk while still very hot and is usually served with seasonal wagashi (traditional Japanese sweets) to offset the bitterness of the tea.
   
   

Steps to make a matcha latte

1. Boil enough water for 1 cup of matcha
2. Gather your matcha powder and any other flavourings or milk you want to use. For this example we’re going to use soy milk and strawberry powder.
3. Froth the matcha like step 3 above. Pour into a large mug. Froth the top again.
4. Add some sweetener (maple syrup, coconut nectar etc…) and soy milk, and sprinkle the top with strawberry powder
5. Enjoy 0n its own or with a few cookies on the side

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