How to prepare matcha tea without failing
Matcha tea, with its vibrant green color and umami flavor, is much more than a beverage: it's a ritual, a way to connect with Japanese tradition and enjoy a unique sensorial experience. Preparing matcha isn't simply infusing leaves; it involves technique, patience, and attention to detail, turning each cup into a special moment of contemplation and enjoyment.
Below, we guide you through the essential steps for preparing the perfect matcha, using the right utensils and respecting the traditional Japanese art of the tea ceremony.
1. The ideal utensils for preparing matcha
To achieve the most authentic and refined experience, it's essential to have the right utensils. The basics include:
Ceramic bowl ( chawan ): A wide and deep bowl, ideal for whisking matcha and appreciating its vibrant color.
Bamboo whisk ( chasen ): With its fine strands, it is essential for achieving silky foam and a smooth texture.
Bamboo Scoop ( chashaku ): Used to measure the precise amount of matcha.
Fine mesh strainer : To sift the matcha and avoid lumps, ensuring a smoother and more refined texture.
Jug with hot water : Preferably around 70-80°C, which prevents the tea from burning and losing its delicate flavor.
2. Measure and sift the matcha
The first step in preparing matcha is to measure the right amount of powder. For a cup of quality matcha, it's recommended to use approximately 1 to 2 grams of powder, which is equivalent to 1-2 teaspoons of chashaku . After measuring the matcha, it's essential to sift it through a fine sieve to avoid lumps that could ruin the smoothness of the infusion.
3. Prepare the water
It's crucial to use fresh, filtered, and gently heated water, between 70°C and 80°C. If the water is too hot, it can burn the matcha and give it a bitter taste. It's best not to use boiling water, as this would negatively affect the tea's smoothness and freshness.
4. Whisk the matcha
Place the sifted matcha in the chawan and pour the hot water over it. Using the chasen , begin whisking with quick, "M" or "W" motions. This motion allows the matcha powder to mix well with the water, creating a light foam on the surface. The key to quality matcha is the texture: it should be smooth, frothy, and lump-free.
5. Enjoy the experience
Once you've blended the matcha, it's time to enjoy it. Drink it immediately, while its aroma and flavor remain fresh. Matcha is best consumed fresh, as its flavor and properties begin to fade over time.
Variations for a personalized touch
Although traditional matcha preparation is the most recommended, there are alternative ways to enjoy it:
Matcha Latte : For those who prefer a milder experience, you can add milk (preferably oat or almond milk to maintain the smoothness and delicate flavor). Heat the milk and mix it with the whipped matcha, creating a creamy and comforting drink.
Cold Matcha : Ideal for hot days, you can prepare matcha the same way and then chill it with ice. The result is a refreshing, antioxidant-rich drink.
Matcha powder for baking : Matcha is also excellent as an ingredient in cooking, from cakes to cookies and ice cream, providing its characteristic green color and unique flavor.
Preparing matcha is an art that goes beyond simply making tea. It's a process steeped in tradition, care, and attention to detail. By following these steps, you'll be able to enjoy a beverage that will not only delight your palate but also elevate your moments of rest and reflection to the next level. At Tea Domain , we invite you to enjoy the purest and most refined matcha, offering products that connect you with the very essence of tea.