DIY Matcha: A Beginner’s Guide To Making Your Own Matcha At Home

A matcha latte is a cup of nutritious goodness that is made from ground matcha powder mixed with water and poured over frothed milk with ice. This drink boasts a rich supply of natural antioxidants that promote heart health and reduce the risk of high blood pressure, along with other matcha health benefits. It also balances harmful free radicals in the body while protecting your liver. Drinking a matcha latte or other matcha drink at least three times a week can boost your brain power by improving your memory, maintaining your energy levels, and keeping you alert. While you can find your favorite cup of matcha at your local coffee shops, it can be quite costly and made from a premade mixture, which isn’t always healthy. In this guide, you will learn how to make matcha latte from scratch.

Tips for selecting the right match powder and the essential tools you need

Identifying quality matcha is not as hard as you might think. With a few tips, you can easily spot the best and right matcha powder for your homemade latte. 

Check the color

One of the common ways to assess the standard of this powerful powder is by looking at its color. Originating from Uji Japan, matcha powder has a distinctive deep green color that is derived from the shading its tea bushes undergo with bamboo mats. However, it may appear in variations of green because the matcha leaves harvested after the first do not typically have the rich green color the initial harvest might have. 

Though you might see the powder in other shades, such as brown and yellow, it would be best to stay away from those. These types of powders were either stored directly in the sun or were not properly shaded. As a result, they could end up tasting bitter and ruining your taste buds.

Smell and taste it

Just as it is rich in color, matcha is also strong in aroma. Its grassy and refreshing scent is a huge indicator of its quality. If you perceive a musty or stale smell, avoid purchasing it. Also, ensure you taste it while shopping. If the powder is too bitter, chances are it's not the original matcha. Quality matcha is a beautiful blend of bitterness and sweetness. When tasted, it has a delicate, sweet flavor and a subtle bitter aftertaste. Low-quality matcha powder, on the other hand, can sometimes have a fishy lingering taste.

Look at the packaging

The packaging of your powder needs to be airtight and sealed correctly to prevent temperature changes and air from compromising its quality. If you come across transparent packaging consisting of thin material instead of opaque watertight containers, avoid buying the powder.

Essential tools for making matcha

You don’t need to break the bank to make your matcha latte at home. All you need are your ingredients and a few essential tools you can easily find on the market. The bamboo matcha whisk is the most important tool because it allows you to mix your powder and water or milk seamlessly without clumps.

 A matcha bowl, which is a deep bowl with a 5-inch diameter, can be utilized as both a preparation and serving container. For a smooth drink, consider getting a tea strainer that can help you separate the residue. If you have limited time in the morning to go through the process, you can get a shaker or thermos bottle and mix your ingredients in no time. 

Instructions for the ceremonial preparation of matcha

Preparing a ceremonial matcha can be a simple and quick process if you have the right ingredients and tools. If this is your first time, get ready for the rewarding feeling of making a great cup with these step-by-step guidelines. 

When it comes to ceremonial matcha prep, the first thing to do is to measure the amount of powder you want to use. You can opt for packaged organic matcha powder like Encha ceremonial or Encha latte matcha, which come in small packs. However, starting with a teaspoon to half a cup of water will be an ideal measurement for a beginner.

Consider sifting the powder with your tea strainer by placing it over your bowl and pouring the matcha powder into it. Sifting is necessary because the powder tends to form clumps when it is exposed to humidity.

Once you have your finely sifted powder in your bowl, pour hot water over it. Ensure its temperature is at 100 degrees Celsius and use 120ml of water. Avoid using too much water so you can have some foam.  

With your bamboo whisk, quickly work on your mixture in a ‘W’ or ‘M’ OR zigzag motion. You should see the delightful foam within 30 seconds of whisking. Finally, serve it in the traditional bowl when it is ready. Or use a glass or a mug if you prefer that.

Creative ideas for flavor exploration and recipes

The amazing perks of matcha are its versatility and ability to invoke different flavors. There are so many recipes to explore if you are feeling creative. 

How to make Banana matcha smoothie 

If you are looking for a healthy breakfast, a banana match smoothie will give you all the nutrients you need to begin your day. This fruity and earthy combination can leave you feeling full and energized. You will need frozen slices of banana, matcha powder, and three to four cups of unsweetened milk of your choice. You can also throw some flaxseeds in it before you blend until smooth.

How to make Iced matcha latte

If you enjoy iced drinks, then the iced matcha latte will be your favorite recipe after you try it. This four-ingredient recipe includes whole milk, matcha powder, water, and dried and chopped Medjool dates that add a fruity sweetness to the blend. When preparing this, ensure you blend till the dates are almost smooth. You can go the extra mile by filtering it with a mesh strainer. Don’t forget to add some ice.

Troubleshooting tips

When making your latte, avoid stirring your matcha with a spoon and use a bamboo whisk instead. Also, ensure you use a latte-grade powder or high quality matcha so it can dissolve easily and pairs well in a matcha latte. It is okay to make a few mistakes when making a matcha latte for the first time. However, with a few tips, you can get a hang of it and make the best matcha lattes. 

Matcha making is an art, and with the right information and items, you can enjoy your own latte from the comfort of your home.