Matcha was popular in 2017 and continues to be one of the most popular food trends. Matcha is a high-quality powdered green tea that has been celebrated in Japanese tea ceremonies for many years. According to Matcha Source, “matcha is cultivated by traditional methods, from growing to grinding.” Weeks before harvest, the tea plants are shaded with bamboo mats to increase the chlorophyll content.
The leaves are then steamed, air-dried, destemmed, and finally ground on ancient stone grinding wheels. Matcha can be used for drinking as tea or as an ingredient in recipes like smoothie bowls, lattes, and chia pudding bowls. Matcha tea is so powerful that you would have to drink 10 cups of regular brewed green tea to get the benefits of 1 cup of matcha.
Benefits: Not only is matcha high in antioxidants, but it improves mood, increases energy levels, detoxifies the body, and is a great alternative to drinking coffee. So let’s dig deeper into why we should all give matcha a try.
Mood and Calmness: Matcha is rich in L-Theanine, an amino acid known to improve mood, increase focus, and reduce stress, and relax the mind.
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Antioxidants and Nutrients: Matcha is packed with antioxidants that help to boost immunity, anti-aging, and prevention of chronic disease. There are 137 times more antioxidants in matcha than in green tea. The EGCg contents are known to maintain cardiovascular and metabolic health. Nutrients include vitamins A and C, magnesium, selenium, and zinc.
Detox: Matcha is rich in chlorophyll, which aids in detoxifying the body from harsh chemicals and toxins.
Weight loss: Matcha contains catechins, which aid in shedding pounds and naturally boost metabolism and burn fat. It’s also high in fiber, which improves digestion and assists to stabilize blood sugar.
Coffee Alternative: Matcha is the perfect coffee alternative. Not only is it sugar-free, but you get natural energy without the jitters.
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How do you make matcha?
Making matcha can be as easy as pouring the powder and hot water into a mug and shaking it or stirring it with a spoon, but preparing matcha the traditional way allows you to be calm and centered while taking in the beauty of the moment.
What you will need:
- Bamboo whisk
- Tea bowl
- Hot water
- Matcha powder
Directions
- Sift 1-2 teaspoons of matcha into a cup using a small sifter.
- Add 2 ounces of hot water. For best results use water just under a boil.
- Whisk vigorously in a zigzag motion until the tea is frothy
- Enjoy straight from the bowl.
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Other ways to matcha
Looking to substitute your everyday latte with a healthier alternative? The Matcha latte is your new favorite obsession. To make the matcha latte you can use the same ingredients and directions as the traditional matcha tea recipe above.
Additionally, you’ll need ¾ cup of unsweetened milk of your choice (preferably a nut milk like almond or cashew, or soy milk) simmered over medium-high heat, and a sweetener like agave syrup. Once you’ve made the matcha tea, add your agave stir, then slowly pour your milk and enjoy.
Will you be trying matcha this year?
Elissa Mirsky, known to most as Elle, is a published author and former editor-in-chief of Bold Magazine. She believes food shouldn’t be boring and every meal should be fashionably edible. Follow her on Instagram @mylifebeingelle where she is documenting her journey to eat well, living life, and love self.
