Matcha green tea powder is derived from ground fresh or processed Camellia sinensis, also known as green tea leaves, which is then dissolved in water to create green tea-flavored beverages. It's a popular way to drink whole tea leaves, as opposed to part of the brewed tea leaf that is often thrown away. Matcha literally means "powdered tea" so, it's not only the essence of the tea leaf that you consume when drinking the beverage, you'll receive its full benefits as well. If you've ever made a regular coffee latte before then, a green tea latter should be a cinch. Here are some tips on how to make a matcha green tea latte, it's benefits and it's many uses.
How To Make A Matcha Green Tea Latte
To make your green tea latte taste amazing, it is recommended that you use the freshest, high-quality ingredients to get the best flavor. This simple recipe is recommended for anyone and can be tweaked to fit your unique dietary needs, so switch out the sugar for agave or honey and use almond milk instead of cow's milk, if needed.
What You'll Need
- 1/2 tsp. matcha powder
- 1/4 cup of hot water
- 1 cup of whole or almond milk
- Sugar or sweetener of your choice (honey, agave, stevia, etc.)
- A large mug
- A small whisk
- A small saucepan or immersion blender
How to Make It
- First, Pour the matcha into the mug with 1/4 cup of hot water. Allow the tea to steep for about 2 minutes, while rapidly whisking to loosen up any chunks.
- Add the milk to the frother if you have one, if not, pour the milk into the saucepan and add the matcha mixture and the sweetener. Heat until lightly boiling, whisking rapidly until foam forms.
- Pour into your favorite mug. Serve warm and enjoy!
Matcha green tea lattes are truly a gem to be enjoyed any time of the day. Not only the decadent smooth taste make a great pairing with a variety of other tasty treats, it's a great way to make your day a little healthier. Just a pinch is all you need and you may never go back to coffee.
The Benefits of Matcha
Matcha green tea powder encourages a wealth of benefits, such as treating cancer, heart and liver disease, diabetes, and obesity. One form of antioxidants, known as catechins, are also found abundantly in green teas. Catechins are free radical-fighting chemicals that help to counteract the effects of skin damage from UV rays. Other health benefits include the vitamin, I-theanine, which raises dopamine and serotonin levels, assisting with lowering stress and increasing focus. Additionally, thermogenesis of the tea leaves helps your body burn fat over a period of time, as well.