Where Does Matcha Come From?

While the tea plant, Camellia Sinensis, originates from China, Matcha tea is part of Japan's culinary heritage. Legend has it that Matcha was introduced to Japan by Zen master Eisai in the 12th century, under the influence of Chan Buddhism practices.

Once forgotten in China, the tradition of powdered tea continued in Japan. By the 16th century, Matcha became the star of the Japanese tea ceremony, chanoyu, with the principles formulated by the tea master Sen no Rikyū.

How to Recognize Authentic Matcha?

A high-quality Matcha is a premium tea, crafted through traditional methods and demanding processes. This luxurious beverage comes in various quality grades, the most common being "ceremonial," "premium," and "culinary."

Matcha "ceremonial" grade is distinguished by a rich green powder and a characteristic “umami” flavor, with very little bitterness. It is traditionally enjoyed plain with water, in full adherence to Japanese customs.

"Premium" Matcha is ideal for recipes where Matcha is the key ingredient, like a Matcha latte. It has a slightly more bitter taste than the "ceremonial" grade, and its powder is a deeper green. The "culinary" grade, on the other hand, is more yellow and bitter, suited for dishes where Matcha adds a creative and flavorful touch.

What Are the Benefits of Matcha Tea?

Unlike whole-leaf green tea, Matcha is consumed in its entirety as a powder, allowing you to fully benefit from its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Famous as an energy booster due to its higher caffeine content compared to regular brewed tea, Matcha also has relaxing properties due to L-theanine. This amino acid helps balance the stimulating effects of caffeine while offering anti-stress benefits, explaining the historical attraction of Buddhist monks to this unique green tea.

With vitamins A, C, and E, potassium, manganese, iron, zinc, and calcium, Matcha serves as a natural cocktail of vitamins and minerals, strengthening the immune system while offering a daily pleasurable taste experience.

How to Prepare Your Matcha Perfectly?

Traditionally, Matcha is prepared with hot water. Simple yet precise steps will allow you to make a cup that is as delicate as it is intense. Betjeman & Barton also offers a complete Matcha kit, including a ceramic bowl, bamboo whisk, porcelain whisk holder, and bamboo spatula, to simplify your tea preparation. These traditional accessories are also available individually on our website, depending on your preferences and needs.

For the perfect cup, start by placing 1 gram (about 1 teaspoon) of Matcha powder into your bowl, then pour a small amount of hot water (around 70°C). Whisk vigorously for about 20 seconds in a "M" shape with your bamboo whisk (chasen) until a fine foam appears on the surface. This technique helps dissolve the Matcha without clumps and creates a smooth, frothy tea. In the summer, your Matcha can become a refreshing iced beverage: follow the same ritual and add ice cubes for a cooling effect. Adjust the water and powder ratio to suit your taste, whether hot or cold.

Matcha Latte: A Sweet and Tasty Drink for a Natural Energy Boost

If you’re not accustomed to the natural taste of Matcha or simply want to vary your pleasures, try a Matcha latte to rediscover the flavors of this iconic Japanese tea. Mix 1 gram of Matcha powder with a splash of milk, then whisk together. For an extra treat, add ice cubes for a refreshing iced version. Good news: the Matcha latte can be made with any plant-based milk of your choice, such as almond, soy, oat, or rice milk. Sweeten with sugar or any other sweetener to suit your taste for a more indulgent drink.

Also, try our “Matcha-Sencha Latte,” a green tea designed for those looking for convenience without compromising flavor. It combines the recognizable notes of Matcha with a base of Sencha green tea, creating an irresistibly delightful drink.

Matcha in the Kitchen: Some Recipe Ideas

Matcha aficionados enjoy its refined taste in its pure form. Increasingly popular, this green tea is now enjoyed in a variety of sweet dishes, to the delight of green tea enthusiasts and curious palates seeking new flavors.

As a powdered tea, Matcha easily integrates into many recipes, from breakfast smoothies to afternoon tea treats. The "premium" grade is perfect for no-bake desserts, while "culinary" Matcha is best for baked goods such as cakes, crepes, waffles, pancakes, and cookies. Combine it with white chocolate or raspberries for desserts that offer a harmonious and original flavor.

How to Properly Store Your Matcha Tea?

For optimal storage of your Matcha over time, we recommend protecting it from elements that could alter its taste and green color, such as light, heat, humidity, and exposure to air. Keep your Matcha in its original container to ensure it stays fresh for each use. If the room temperature exceeds 25°C, you may store your Matcha in the refrigerator. Be sure to remove it a few minutes before consumption for the best tasting experience. Once opened, Matcha may slightly oxidize over time. After a few months, you can still use it in your baking recipes and other Japanese-inspired treats.