MATCHA HOW-TO
We encourage making your daily matcha to personal taste: figuring out how you enjoy it best and what makes you sip. In saying that, there are guidelines to making a traditional matcha and creating a ritual from it. Read on below for our guide to lattes and usucha.
A NOTE ON EQUIPMENT
If you don’t have access to matcha equipment, that’s ok! We recommend buying a Chasen whisk if nothing else. While the equipment we outline is the traditional way to prepare matcha and will ensure the most delicious outcome, there are other ways to prepare your tea or latte. A small electric whisk instead of the Chasen bamboo whisk will work, or if you’re in a pickle, you can place all your ingredients in a blender to combine before heating up.
EQUIPMENT
Chasen (whisk)
Chashaku (scoop)
Naoshi (whisk holder)
Chawan (bowl)
Sifter
MAKING A MATCHA LATTE
A matcha latte is an everyday go-to and can be prepared exactly how you like it. Our preferred method is to use soy milk and a dash of honey.
INGREDIENTS
2 - 2.5 grams A.M. MATCHA (approximately two heaped scoops of a chashaku/bamboo scoop or one tsp)
40mL of 80°C hot water
150mL milk of choice (soy or oat are ideal)
Honey or maple syrup, if required
METHOD
(1) Heat water to 80°C and soak matcha whisk in warm water to soften. This prevents bristles from breaking.
(2) Sift matcha into a small bowl.
(3) Add 40mL of 80°C water into matcha bowl and whisk in a Z motion until frothy.
(4) Add steamed milk and sweeten to taste.
QUICK LIST
2 - 2.5 grams matcha
40mL of 80°C water
150mL milk of choice
Sweetener of choice
MAKING USUCHA
Usucha is a thin tea made with just ceremonial grade matcha and water. A beautiful way to serve usucha is alongside something sweet such as mochi or a small baked good. The sweetness perfectly complements the umami and bitter notes of the pure matcha.
INGREDIENTS
2 grams A.M. MATCHA (approximately two heaped scoops of a chashaku/bamboo scoop)
80mL of 80°C hot water
METHOD
(1) Heat water to 80°C and soak matcha whisk in warm water to soften. This prevents bristles from breaking.
(2) Sift matcha into a small bowl.
(3) Add 40mL of 80°C water into matcha bowl and whisk in a Z motion until frothy.
(4) Add an extra 40mL of hot water.
QUICK LIST
2 grams matcha
80mL of 80°C water
