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Written by: Michael Kravit
Maybe it’s the cold weather, maybe it’s the thirst for the perfect “morning engine” made from something 100% real, like a single leaf. Matcha has taken the center stage recently due to its array of health benefits, combined with its reliable delivery of a bright uplifting calm.
Unfortunately, many of even the most dedicated tea drinkers don’t take advantage of matcha because they don’t know how to use it. Actually, it’s simpler to enjoy than loose-leaf tea because it requires no bag, no teapot. And there are so many ways to enjoy. See below for some tips as to how to take advantage of this very special member of the tea family.
Brew Less, Get More:
Matcha may be more expensive than regular loose tea. That’s because the hand-picked tender leaves are painstakingly ground into a pure concentrated powder, with extra measures taken to shield the tender leaves from chlorophyl-damaging light. The resulting powder is bright green, with heavier concentration of all the beneficial nutrients found it all tea: catechins, polyphenols, flavonoids, and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), a powerful antioxidant. 1 teaspoon per cup is all you need to capture all of these benefits.
Green is the New Black:
Americans drink in excess of 3 cups of coffee per day, sometimes a lot more (you know who you are). Matcha is a great coffee replacement because it still delivers on the caffeine high, but also contain other stimulants that ease the roller-coaster effect into a smoother, longer lasting experience.
Mix it up:
Get an energetic blast into your favorite smoothie, or even “spike” another green tea with the uplifting powder. Toasted barley infused Gen Mai Cha and Matcha make a great combo on a cold winter
morning.
Be Ceremonious:
The Japanese have a long history of tea ceremonies. Guests are asked to leave troubled thoughts behind and enjoy the calming rituals of the process. You can host your own ritual easily with matcha and some mindfulness. Once you learn the basics, get creative (more tea will help).
Tea Ceremony Hosting in 6 steps: here.
Tea fit for an emperor: Davidstea, La crème de la crème
Whisk it good:
A bamboo whisk will come in handy if you’re drinking matcha solo. The whisking motion give it a nice frothy texture great for sipping. Brew it below boiling temperature at around 165F
Try it chilled:
Cold-brewed matcha is a fantastic natural chemical-free energy booster. Perfect for a quick afternoon pick-me-up.
Write in to tell us how you like your matcha?
