Matcha is a popular tea that has gained momentum around people who have an interest in healthy eating. But what does it actually taste like? In this blog post, explore the different tastes of this heavenly tea and how the flavour can vary by region.
Matcha’s Unique Taste
Matcha has a unique taste that is both sweet and savoury. Some people compare it to the taste of green tea, but with a sweeter aftertaste. The sweetness comes from the naturally occurring sugars in the leaves, which are released when it is made. Sometimes it is also known to be a bit more savoury than sweet, with an umami flavour that can be described as “earthy” or “vegetal.”
Despite its strong flavour, it is very versatile and can be used in both sweet and savoury dishes. It is commonly used in desserts like ice cream and cakes, but can also be used in savoury dishes like soup or noodles.
If you’re curious about matcha but not sure if you’ll like it, start by trying it in a small amount. You can add it to smoothies, yogurt, or oatmeal, or make a matcha latte by adding milk and sweetener to taste. Once you get used to its taste, you can experiment by using it in different recipes.
Matcha Nutrition
When it comes to matcha, there are a lot of health benefits that come along with it. It is rich in antioxidants, which can help to boost your immune system and protect your body against disease. It is also a good source of fiber, which can help to keep you full for longer and improve your digestion. And last but not least, it is a great source of energy, so if you’re looking for an afternoon pick-me-up, look no further than a cup of matcha!
When and How to Drink Matcha
To taste matcha the correct way, there are a few key things you should keep in mind. First, take a small sip and let the tea sit on your tongue for a moment before swallowing. This will help you to better appreciate the flavour.
There are two main ways to enjoy it: usucha and koicha. Usucha is the more common way and it involves mixing 1-2 grams of matcha powder with 80-90ml of hot water. This results in a thin, frothy beverage that has a slightly bitter taste.
Koicha, on the other hand, uses a much higher ratio of matcha powder to water – about 4-5 grams of powder per 30ml of water. This creates a thick, rich drink that has a sweeter taste.
Pay attention to the texture of the tea. Is it smooth or slightly gritty? Finally, notice the aftertaste. Does the flavour linger or does it dissipate quickly?
- Ceremonial Grade Matcha: This is the highest quality matcha and is reserved for traditional Japanese tea ceremonies. It has a very smooth texture and a slightly sweet taste.
- Culinary Grade Matcha: This type of matcha is commonly used in recipes and baking. It has a more robust flavour and a slightly bitter taste.
When it comes to caffeine, matcha is often lauded for its high levels. A typical serving of matcha powder contains around 70 milligrams of caffeine, which is more than what's found in a cup of coffee. If you are sensitive to caffeine, you can still enjoy it by having it with milk instead of water. This will help cut down on the caffeine content while still giving you a delicious drink.
However, it's important to note that the caffeine content in matcha can vary depending on the quality of the leaves and how they are processed.
Despite its high caffeine content, matcha has a relatively mellow effect on the body. This is due to the fact that matcha contains L-theanine, an amino acid that has been shown to promote relaxation. When L-theanine is combined with caffeine, it creates a unique balance that gives you sustained energy without any jitteriness or crash.
Benefits of Matcha Tea
When it comes to taste, matcha is a bit of an acquired taste. Some people love it from the first sip, while others take some time to get used to the unique flavour. But once you develop a taste for it, you'll be hooked on to its complex and slightly sweet flavour.
Not only does matcha have a great taste, but it also has some amazing health benefits. The antioxidants and nutrients present in matcha help boost your immune system, improve your metabolism, and even prevent certain types of cancer. If you're looking for a healthy way to change your daily routine, matcha is a great option!
Matcha is a versatile tea that can be enjoyed in many different ways. Whether you like it sweet or savoury, there are many ways to make it that will suit your taste. And with so many health benefits, there's no reason not to give it a try.
Now that you know a little more about matcha, we hope you'll give it a try!
If you're looking for a high-quality matcha powder, we recommend our ceremonial grade matcha. It's perfect for making traditional Japanese-style matcha tea.
And if you're looking to experiment, Tencha's Culinary Matcha is the perfect choice for you! So pick up some matcha powder and start experimenting.
Happy sipping!
