Coming into the winter months, there’s nothing quite like starting your day with a hot cuppa or coming home to one after a long day at work. However, the post-caffeine jitters and energy slump are a common and unwanted side effect that many of us experience. That’s where matcha comes in. Full of health supporting antioxidants and amino acids, and containing less caffeine than coffee, consuming matcha each day can help you feel calmer and more clear-minded.
What is matcha?
Matcha is a type of tea, made from the powder of entire green tea leaves. The Chinese methods of preparing matcha were brought to Japan in the 12th Century, where it has been consumed ever since. Traditionally, the green leaves are picked and laid out flat to dry, then ground into a fine powder. Hot water is added to the powder and whisked with a bamboo brush until a froth is formed on top. Matcha is still a large part of traditional Japanese tea ceremonies today, and because of its potential health benefits has recently made its way into the western diet.
What are some of the benefits of matcha?
On average, one cup of matcha tea has as many antioxidants as ten cups of your regular brewed green tea, and contains one of the most powerful antioxidants known to man, Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG). EGCG is thought to help support normal blood-glucose levels, break down stored fat and support hormone levels in the body.
Another important component of matcha is the amino acid L-theanine which is thought to have many positive effects on our health. L-theanine has been shown to support normal stress levels (even during stressful situations) and it’s believed to have profound effects on learning and memory. Zen Buddhist monks would drink matcha tea prior to meditation, as matcha stimulates presence of mind, mental alertness, and a calm, meditative state - simultaneously!
Why use Matakana SuperFoods Organic Matcha Tea Powder?
Our Organic Matcha Tea Powder is made from specially grown and processed young green leaves. An important aspect of producing a premium quality matcha tea is ensuring that it is protected from oxidation. Here at Matakana SuperFoods, our special oxygen-resistant, metalised foil pouches are designed to maintain maximum freshness and potency, ensuring you get the best grade of matcha tea possible.
How to use our Organic Matcha Tea Powder
Matcha tea powder is very versatile and is primarily used in a variety of hot beverages, smoothies and desserts. If you're wanting a quick and convenient hot drink, whisk up a hot matcha tea. Alternatively, if you're looking to replace your daily coffee fix with matcha, you might like to try a matcha latte!
MATCHA TEA
INGREDIENTS
1/2 tsp Organic Matcha Tea Powder
1/4 cup hot water
METHOD
- Press matcha tea powder through a small sieve and into a bowl.
- Add hot (not boiling) water and whisk vigorously for 1-2 minutes until a foam is formed.
- Pour into mug and top up with more hot water if desired.
MATCHA LATTE
INGREDIENTS
1/2 tsp Organic Matcha Tea Powder
1/4 cup hot water
1 cup milk of your choice
1-2 tsp coconut sugar
METHOD
- Press matcha tea powder through a small sieve and into a bowl.
- Add hot (not boiling) water and whisk vigorously for 1-2 minutes until a foam is formed.
- Heat milk in a saucepan and add coconut sugar to sweeten.
- Pour the heated milk into the cup containing the tea. Dust with extra matcha tea powder.
We'd love to see how you use our Organic Matcha Tea Powder! Tag us in your delicious creations on Facebook and Instagram
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