Matcha Mania

The traditional, theatrical powdered tea and its growing fan base

By Team Foodstories

3-Minute Read

In India where tea is the national obsession, matcha is making waves as the green gem is winning over hearts one sip at a time. Originally from Japan, matcha is no ordinary cup of tea; it’s finely powdered green tea leaves, a bright green elixir that has found its way into the cups of tea lovers across the world.

Matcha is grown with care and precision and prepared with the same precision. Unlike regular green tea matcha is shade grown for weeks before harvest which boosts its chlorophyll content. This gives it that bright green colour and amplifies its flavour and aroma. Once harvested and powdered, matcha is stirred into hot water and becomes a frothy jade elixir. Every step is symbolic of harmony and tranquility. Matcha is good for the body as much as the mind. It is high in antioxidants which may prevent cell damage and reduce the risk of chronic diseases, good for heart health and may boost memory too.

Beyond just serving and making tea, matcha is an exercise in spirituality in Japan. The traditional tea ceremony, "chanoyu" is a way to practice devotion and meditation, connect with the essence of the tea experience. The entire process is designed to help you find your zen in a fast paced world. It’s also a symbol of hospitality as hosts welcome guests into their homes with a gesture as simple yet profound as a cup of tea.

But matcha’s magic doesn’t stop at Japan. With the global interest in health and wellness, matcha came to India and has become the go to choice for those looking for a greener, healthier lifestyle. Its antioxidant properties have made it a superhero in the beverage world. Matcha fans will know that it’s not limited to the cup anymore. It’s made its way into various culinary creations with matcha lattes, ice creams and cakes being the new favourites. The earthy, grassy flavour of matcha with a hint of bitterness pairs well with the sweetness of desserts.

Matcha is here to stay in India and it’s clear this is green tea’s cooler cousin and has a special place in many hearts. That’s how traditions can cross borders and cultures and evolve into something beautiful and loved.

How To Include Matcha In Your Diet, Throughout The Day

By Team Foodstories

A Beginner’s Guide To Matcha

By Team Foodstories

If you're new to matcha, fear not—this guide is your passport to mastering the art of matcha. From navigating the shelves to distinguishing between ceremonial and culinary grades, here's your beginner's roadmap to matcha bliss.

The Art Of Selection
Quality and grade is of utmost importance when it comes to matcha. Look for vibrant colour, fine texture, and a fresh, grassy aroma. Ceremonial grade matcha, with its vibrant hue and nuanced flavour, is perfect for traditional tea ceremonies. Culinary grade is slightly bolder and bitter in taste and ideal for lattes, smoothies, and other creations.

Store It With Care
Once you've found your matcha soulmate, storage becomes crucial. Keep it in an airtight container away from heat, light, and moisture. The enemy of matcha is air, so ensure that your container seals tightly to preserve its freshness. Typically, matcha stays fresh for three to six months in the fridge if left unopened. Once it’s opened, use it up by the end of the month before the aroma and floral taste dissipate.

Making Matcha The Traditional Way
Start with a bamboo whisk (chasen) and a clay bowl (chawan). Scoop some matcha into your bowl, add hot but not boiling water, and whisk in a gentle "W" or "M" motion until there are no clumps and there’s enough froth on top. It's a dance between tradition and flavour, creating a velvety concoction that is not just tea but a moment of zen.

Going Beyond The Usual
Matcha is no longer confined to traditional ceremonies, the doors are open for you to experiment with unique creations. Stir up some matcha lattes, bake some matcha-infused desserts, or even matcha-infused savoury dishes such as soups, salads and more!

Whether you're whisking up a bowl of tranquillity or infusing your recipes with some vibrant matcha, let this guide be your companion in the delightful world of green tea perfection.