How to Use Matcha Powder: A Comprehensive Guide

Matcha powder is an antioxidant-rich, bright green powder made from ground green tea leaves, and it has a unique flavor and nutritional profile compared to regular green tea. It has gained popularity in recent years due to its potential health benefits. If you’re new to matcha powder, you may be wondering how to use it properly.

In this article, we will dive into the world of matcha powder and learn everything you need to know about how to use matcha powder, including matcha powder recipes, how to make it into tea, how much to use, caffeine content, storage tips, and more.

How to make matcha tea

Matcha tea is the most popular way to consume matcha powder, and it’s relatively easy to make. Here’s how:

Ingredients

• 1 tsp matcha powder
• 1 cup hot water
• Optional: milk, honey, or other sweeteners

Instructions

1. Boil water and let it cool to about 160-180°F (70-80°C).
2. Sift matcha powder into a bowl or cup.
3. Add a small amount of hot water and whisk vigorously with a bamboo whisk or electric frother until frothy.
4. Gradually add more hot water and whisk until you reach the desired concentration.
5. Add milk, honey, or other sweeteners if desired.

How much matcha powder per cup

The amount of matcha powder per cup depends on personal preference and the quality of the matcha powder. A general rule of thumb is to use 1 teaspoon of matcha powder per 8 ounces of water or milk. However, if you prefer a stronger or milder flavor, adjust the amount of matcha powder to your taste.

Is matcha tea good for you?

Matcha tea is rich in antioxidants, which can help protect the body against damage from free radicals, heart disease, and certain types of cancer.

It also contains a unique type of catechin called EGCG, which has been shown to have various health benefits, including reducing inflammation and boosting metabolism.

An amino acid called “L-theanine” in matcha tea can promote relaxation and reduce stress too.

Does matcha tea have caffeine?

Yes, matcha tea does contain caffeine. However, the amount of caffeine in matcha tea is lower than that of coffee, and it’s also released more slowly over time. This means that matcha tea can provide a more sustained energy boost without the jitters or crashes associated with coffee.

Matcha tea vs. green tea

Matcha tea and green tea come from the same plant, Camellia sinensis, but they are processed differently. Matcha tea is made by grinding green tea leaves into a powder, while regular green tea is made by steeping the leaves in hot water. Because of this, matcha tea is more concentrated in nutrients and caffeine compared to green tea.

Matcha green tea vs. green tea for weight loss

Both matcha green tea and green tea may aid in weight loss due to their high antioxidant content and potential metabolism-boosting effects. But due to matcha’s higher concentration of nutrients and caffeine than regular green tea, it may be a better choice if weight loss is your primary goal.

However, it’s important to remember that the best way to achieve weight loss is through a combination of healthy eating habits, regular exercise, and a balanced lifestyle.

Matcha powder recipes

Matcha powder can also be used in various recipes, including desserts, smoothies, and more. Here are some of our favorite matcha powder recipes:

Matcha latte

Ingredients:

• 1 tsp matcha powder
• 1 cup milk
• 1 tbsp honey or other sweeteners

Instructions:

1. Heat milk in a small saucepan over medium heat.
2. Sift matcha powder into a bowl.
3. Add a small amount of hot milk and whisk vigorously until smooth.
4. Gradually add more hot milk and whisk until frothy.
5. Add honey or other sweeteners to taste.

Matcha smoothie

Ingredients:

• 1 tsp matcha powder
• 1 cup spinach
• 1 banana
• 1/2 cup almond milk
• 1 tbsp honey or other sweeteners

Instructions:

1. Add all ingredients to a blender.
2. Blend until smooth and frothy.
3. Serve immediately.

Matcha ice cream

Ingredients:

• 1 tsp matcha powder
• 1 can full-fat coconut milk
• 1/2 cup honey or other sweeteners
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Add all ingredients to a blender.
2. Blend until smooth and frothy.
3. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and freeze according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Can matcha powder go bad?

Matcha powder doesn’t have an expiration date. But like any other food product, matcha powder can go bad if stored improperly or for too long. Typically, high-quality matcha powder will have a shelf life of around 6-12 months if stored properly.

Signs that matcha powder has gone bad include a rancid smell, off taste, and a change in color from bright green to yellow or brown. So it’s best to check the best-by date on the packaging and use it before that date to ensure freshness and quality.

How to store matcha powder

It’s important to store matcha powder properly to keep it fresh. Here are some tips on how to store matcha powder:

1. Store in an airtight container: After opening the matcha powder, transfer it to an airtight container to prevent exposure to air, moisture, and light.
2. Keep it in a cool, dark place: Matcha powder should be stored in a cool, dark place such as a pantry or cupboard. Avoid storing it in the refrigerator, as this can cause condensation and moisture to develop.
3. Use it within a few weeks: Matcha powder is best consumed within a few weeks of opening. Over time, the quality and freshness of the powder can deteriorate, leading to a bitter taste and loss of health benefits.
4. Purchase in small quantities: If you don’t use matcha powder frequently, consider purchasing it in smaller quantities to prevent waste and ensure freshness.

Does matcha powder have sugar?

Matcha powder is a pure and natural product made from ground green tea leaves. It does not contain any added sugars.

Does matcha powder have calories?

One teaspoon of matcha powder (about 2 grams) contains approximately 3 calories. This is a very small amount of calories and can be considered negligible for most people.

Does matcha tea break a fast?

Thanks to matcha powder being sugar-free and extremely low in calories, matcha tea is also considered sugar and calorie-free if prepared with water instead of milk. This way it doesn’t interrupt intermittent fasting and doesn’t break your fast.

To sum up

Matcha powder is low in calories, and it is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that can provide numerous health benefits. Drinking matcha tea or adding matcha powder to your recipes can be a great way to boost your nutrient intake without adding extra calories or sugar to your diet. You can also drink it during your fasting window if you’re following an intermittent fasting schedule.