How To Make Matcha

Matcha is a japanese green tea that is really simple to make. Yet there are some tips and tricks that could make your matcha taste much better. Let's explore how to make a perfect matcha.

Matcha powder that you use plays a crucial role in the taste of the tea. There are 3 main matcha powder grades - culinary, latte and ceremonial. Ideally aim for ceremonial grade matcha as it will have a much better taste. Culinary grade matcha will taste bitter, grassy and most likely you will need to add sweeteners to make it taste good. Also ceremonial grade matcha has nice flowery aroma and is visually pleasing with its vibrant green color.

Measure out 1-2 grams of matcha powder, roughly 1/2 to 1 teaspoon. If you prefer a more gentle taste or are sensitive to caffeine, I would recommend adding 1 gram, that is my personal choice as well. If you want a stronger cup of matcha - go for 2 grams.

Sift matcha powder into a bowl. Sifting removes any clumps and makes it easier to mix matcha into the water.

Best water for matcha is spring water as it brings the best flavours of the tea. Alternatively you can use filtered or tap water.

Heat water to around 175°F (80°C) - it is the perfect temperature. If you use boiling water matcha will taste bitter. In case you are making a cold drink - it is also possible to make matcha with cold water but it is a bit harder to mix it or get that nice frothy texture.

At first pour around 2-3 ounces of water into a bowl. You can add more water later but it is easier to mix matcha with a smaller amount of water and more later.

Mix matcha in "W" or "M" motion with a matcha whisk. Try not to scratch the bottom of the bowl too hard as it will damage your whisk. Keep mixing for around 15 seconds until you see a nice froth on top with no big bubbles left.

Alternatively you can mix matcha with an electric frother. Just make sure to use tall glass instead of a bowl to avoid matcha splashing everywhere.

There is one more option how to mix matcha which I use especially often when I am in a rush or don't have my matcha whisk nearby - is to shake matcha. It is very efficient and really does the job of mixing matcha. Just be careful if you are doing it with hot water and make sure that the shaker/bottle/jar is suitable for that not get burnt. I use shaker only for cold water and a thermos with tight lid for hot water.
Once you have your matcha ready you can drink as it is, top it up with water, mix it with milk of choice, add sweetener like honey or maple syrup if you want.

Take a look at our matcha recipe ideas below!

Matcha Dalgona Recipe