The Best Matcha Latte | Step-by-Step Guide from the Town of Tea Whiskers
How to Make a Delicious Iced Matcha Latte
Today, I’d like to introduce you to a refreshing iced matcha latte. Matcha lattes are super popular all over the world right now, and I’m excited to share the secret to making it delicious!
The Heart of Tea Culture
I live in a town that produces 99% of Japan’s chasen(茶筅 or 茶筌）, tea whiskers, and is the heart of tea culture. It’s not just because of that; many people here enjoy matcha.
Takayama, located in Ikoma City, Nara Prefecture, is the only producer of tea whisks in Japan and has held the largest share of global production for over 700 years. Isn’t that amazing?
Let’s Make a Matcha Latte!
Now, let’s get started on making a delicious matcha latte!
Ingredients
- Two bamboo teaspoons (one regular teaspoon) of matcha (about 2g)
- 1/3 cup of 80℃ (170℉) hot water
- Ice
- Milk of your choice (whole milk, soy milk, oat milk, etc.)
- Simple syrup (made from equal parts sugar and water)
Instructions
- First, put two teaspoons (about 2g) of matcha into a bowl.
- Then, pour in 1/3 cup of 80℃ (170℉) hot water. Be careful not to use boiling water, as it can make the matcha taste bitter.
- If there are any lumps, strain them out through a tea strainer. If you have a bamboo whisk, you don’t need to strain it, as the matcha will mix nicely.
- Move your wrist up and down to mix the matcha well and incorporate air. After about a minute, the surface will be covered with bubbles, which is a sign that it’s ready.
- Fill a glass with ice and pour in your choice of milk. I love using whole milk, but you can use soy milk, oat milk, or any milk you prefer.
- Add a touch of sweetness with simple syrup made from equal parts sugar and water. Avoid honey or maple syrup as they can overpower the matcha’s delicate aroma.
- Gently pour in the matcha, mix well, and enjoy!
Choosing the Right Matcha
When choosing matcha, make sure it doesn’t contain any added sugar or milk. Matcha has so many health benefits, and its unique aroma and deliciousness are truly captivating. One reason we Japanese are so healthy and live longer is that we drink matcha and green tea regularly.
Health Benefits of Matcha
- Relaxation and Stress Relief: Drinking matcha can help calm the mind and reduce anxiety.
- Improved Sleep: Matcha’s relaxing properties can enhance sleep quality.
- Digestive Health: Matcha can soothe the digestive tract, alleviating indigestion, bloating, and nausea.
- Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Properties: Matcha is rich in antioxidants, which reduce inflammation and protect cells from damage.
Enjoy your iced matcha latte, and see you next time!