Matcha Tea: The green powder that conquered the world

Matcha tea has evolved from an ancient secret reserved for Japanese rituals to a global symbol of modern wellness. Its vibrant green color, distinctive flavor, and extraordinary health benefits have made it a staple in both cups of tea and gourmet recipes. In this article, we'll tell you everything you need to know about this gem of Japanese culture.

What is matcha tea?
Matcha is a powdered green tea made from shade-grown tencha tea leaves, hand-picked, dried, and slowly ground in stone mills. Unlike other teas, when you drink matcha you consume the whole leaf, multiplying its nutritional value and enhancing its benefits.

Origin and tradition
Although its origins date back to China, matcha reached its peak in Japan, where it was adopted by Buddhist monks in the 12th century. It became central to the Japanese tea ceremony ( chanoyu ), a practice that combines discipline, aesthetics, and spirituality.

Properties and benefits of matcha tea
Matcha is known for providing a stable and balanced source of energy thanks to its caffeine and L-theanine content. This combination provides serene focus, ideal for meditation or work.
Its high concentration of antioxidants, particularly catechins such as EGCG, protects against cellular aging and strengthens the immune system.
It also stimulates metabolism, promotes fat burning, and improves mood by naturally reducing stress.

How to prepare matcha tea
Traditional preparation requires precision and simplicity. Sift a teaspoon of matcha into a bowl, add hot water (around 80°C), and whisk with a chasen —the Japanese bamboo whisk—in vigorous "W" motions until a light foam forms.
The result is a thick, silky beverage with a distinctive umami flavor. It can also be enjoyed as a matcha latte with plant-based milk or used in baked goods, ice cream, or smoothies.

Types of matcha: ceremonial and culinary
Ceremonial-grade matcha has a brighter color, a milder flavor, and a finer texture, and is traditionally drunk with water. Culinary-grade matcha, on the other hand, has a more robust flavor, ideal for mixing with other ingredients in sweet or savory recipes.

Matcha is one of the purest and most complete forms of tea. Beyond its visual beauty and ancient history, it stands out for its ability to balance body and mind. Including it in your daily routine is a delicious and healthy way to reconnect with your essence and enjoy a mindful moment.