Immerse yourself in the calm, focused energy of matcha green tea—rich in antioxidants, bold in flavor, and perfect for everything from traditional sips to creamy, indulgent lattes.
Love matcha? Explore it iced, hot, or the traditional way—then try it with my Vegan Oat Bran Muffins, Vegan Chocolate Chip Banana Bread, or Vegan Carrot Cupcakes for the perfect combo.
Jump to:
- What is matcha?
- Health benefits of matcha
- Why drink matcha tea?
- How to make an iced matcha latte
- Ceremonial vs. culinary grade
- How to choose matcha powder
- Storing and preserving matcha powder
- In the kitchen tips
- Suggested equipment
- Top favorite matcha picks
- Suggested recipes
- FAQ
- 1. Iced Matcha Latte
- 📖 Recipe
- 2. Traditional Matcha Latte
- 📖 Recipe
- 3. Creamy Matcha Latte
- 📖 Recipe
- 💬 Comments
My journey with matcha began back in the early 2000s, right around the time I first dove into holistic wellness. I was following Dr. Andrew Weil, a longtime matcha enthusiast, who spoke highly of its numerous health benefits. His love for it was contagious, and I’ve been hooked ever since.
Matcha has become a treasured part of my morning and wellness routine, which I genuinely look forward to each day. I reach for an iced matcha latte in the warmer months and switch to a cozy, warming mug once the weather cools. Either way, it’s a moment of self-care I truly look forward to.
I'm big on enjoying a cup of something each day. In summer, you’ll often find me with an Iced Green Tea Lemonade, Blueberry Lemonade, or a Hibiscus Tea Strawberry Lemonade. And when it's chilly out, I'm all about a Pumpkin Chai Tea Latte (paired with my Pumpkin Mug Cake, please!), or one of my Calming Herbal Teas.
Whether you’re brand new to matcha or just want to learn a bit more, you’re in the right place.
What is matcha?
Definition and Origin
Matcha, a finely ground green tea powder, originated in China and was introduced to Japan by Zen monk Eisai in 1191. Matcha became the centerpiece of a traditional Japanese tea ceremony known as chanoyu or sado. The ceremonies symbolize mindfulness, respect, and harmony, reflecting the intentionality of Japanese traditions.
Made from shade-grown tea leaves, matcha involves an intricate process, and the leaves are stone-ground into a fine powder. Unlike regular green tea, which is steeped and discarded, matcha is consumed in its entirety, offering higher concentrations of nutrients and antioxidants.
Unique Characteristics
What sets matcha apart is its bright green color, velvety texture, and earthy umami flavor. The shading process increases its amino acids and chlorophyll content, giving it a vibrant hue and distinct taste. If you’re new to matcha, its slightly bitter flavor might surprise you, but a touch of sweetener definitely makes it more approachable. Personally, I love it as is!
Health benefits of matcha
- Antioxidants, particularly catechins like EGCG and vitamin C, which can help neutralize free radicals and may support skin health, immune function, and overall wellness
- According to a review published in Molecules, regular consumption of matcha, rich in catechins, L-theanine, and other bioactive compounds, “May support the body’s efforts to maintain health and prevent disease.”
Why drink matcha tea?
- Calm, focused energy: A cup of matcha offers a steady energy boost without the coffee jitters. It’s a favorite for mornings or an afternoon pick-me-up.
- Matcha shines as a hot or iced latte, but it doesn’t end there—add it to smoothies, oatmeal, ice cream, or cookies!
- A calming ritual grounded in mindfulness, it’s an essential part of a holistic lifestyle, promoting balance in body and mind.
How to make an iced matcha latte
Sift matcha powder into a bowl to remove any clumps.
Add hot water to the bowl. Whisk briskly in a zigzag motion until the matcha is frothy and fully dissolved.
Fill your glass with ice cubes, and pour in the matcha and sweetener if desired.
Slowly pour cold plant-based milk (such as oat or cashew) over the ice for a layered effect. Enjoy!
Ceremonial vs. culinary grade
- Ceremonial grade matcha: This is the good stuff, meant for drinking on its own. It’s vibrant, smooth, and has a delicate flavor.
- Culinary grade matcha: This grade is perfect for recipes like smoothies, lattes, or baked goods. It’s slightly more robust and earthy.
If you love matcha as much as I do, you'll love our vegan matcha cookies!
How to choose matcha powder
- Look for a bright, vibrant green color — dull or yellowish hues mean lower quality.
- The texture should be silky and clump-free.
- Choose organic and ethically sourced matcha for superior quality and sustainability.
Storing and preserving matcha powder
To keep your matcha fresh and flavorful:
- Store it in an airtight container away from light, air, and moisture.
- Keep it cool and dry; avoid direct sunlight (the freezer works great).
- Fresh matcha should be vibrant green. If it looks dull or smells off, it’s time to replace it.
In the kitchen tips
- High-quality matcha makes all the difference — it’s smoother, offers better flavor, and nutrients.
- Water temperature should be at 160°F–175°F. Water that’s too hot will scorch the matcha and taste bitter. Boiling destroys some of the properties in the tea, and is not required like green tea.
- For a latte, if you don’t have a steamer, heat the milk gently to 150°F–160°F (just hot enough to be steamy but not scalding) and froth it with a whisk, handheld frother, or by shaking in a sealed jar.
- Sweeten with maple syrup, agave, or even honey for non-vegan options.
- Start with 1 teaspoon matcha, but adjust based on how bold you like your tea.
- Try a splash of pure vanilla extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a flavor twist.
- For multiple servings, whisk matcha and water in a larger bowl, then divide and add milk.
Suggested equipment
- If you’re new to matcha, I recommend this beginner-friendly matcha starter set, and this matcha set works wonderfully. Alternatively, you can purchase items separately.
- Chasen (bamboo matcha whisk) and Chashaku (bamboo scoop)
- Chawan (matcha bowl) or a simple bowl
Top favorite matcha picks
Suggested recipes
FAQ
Not exactly. Matcha is made from green tea leaves, but you consume the entire leaf in powdered form, which means an even lolhigher concentration of nutrients and antioxidants.
Yes! Matcha is perfect for baking cookies, and cakes, or adding to smoothies and oatmeal. Use culinary-grade matcha for recipes.
No worries! A simple bowl and a small whisk work wonders. You can even shake it up in a jar in a pinch.
An airtight container in a cool, dark place is best. The fridge works well to extend its freshness.
1. Iced Matcha Latte
📖 Recipe
Iced Matcha Latte Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon culinary grade matcha powder, up to 2 teaspoon depending on the strength you like
- 2 ounces hot water, 160°F–175°F, not boiling
- 6 ounces cold plant-based milk, cashew or oat milk is my favorite
- Ice cubes
- Optional: 1 teaspoon maple syrup or agave for sweetness
Instructions
- Sift the matcha powder into a glass.
- Add 2 oz hot water and whisk until frothy. Let it cool slightly.
- Fill the glass with ice cubes, then pour in the cold milk.
- Sweeten if desired, stir gently, and enjoy.
- Sift matcha powder into a bowl to remove clumps.
- Add 2 oz hot water (160°F–175°F, not boiling).
- Whisk in a zigzag motion until smooth and frothy.
- Fill a glass with ice cubes, then pour in the matcha, and sweeten to taste if desired.
- Pour in the cold milk. Enjoy!
Notes
- For a creamier texture, optionally froth the cold milk slightly with a frother or blender before adding it to the glass.
- For extra flavor, add a splash of vanilla or a pinch of cinnamon.
- Adjust matcha and sweetener amounts based on your taste preference.
Nutrition
2. Traditional Matcha Latte
📖 Recipe
Traditional Matcha Tea
Ingredients
- 1-2 teaspoons matcha powder, depending on the strength desired (ceremonial grade matcha recommended)
- 2 oz hot water, 160°F–175°F
- Additional 5–7 oz of hot water, to dilute the tea (I do 6 oz)
- Optional: Sweeten with maple syrup, agave, or honey if desired
Instructions
- Sift matcha powder into a bowl to remove clumps.
- Add 2 oz hot water (160°F–175°F, not boiling).
- Whisk briskly in a zigzag motion until frothy.
- Add 5–7 oz of hot water to dilute the tea to your desired strength (lighter or stronger tea).
- Sweeten to taste if desired.
Notes
- Note: If it’s your first time drinking matcha, start with 1 teaspoon of matcha powder and 6 oz of hot water for a balanced flavor. Adjust the water (5–7 oz) to find your perfect strength.
Nutrition
3. Creamy Matcha Latte
📖 Recipe
Ingredients
- 1-2 teaspoons culinary grade matcha powder, depending on strength desired
- 2 oz hot water, 160°F–175°F
- 6 oz steamed plant-based milk, oat or cashew milk works great
- Optional: 1 teaspoon maple syrup or agave for sweetness
Instructions
- Sift matcha powder into a mug to prevent clumping.
- Add 2 oz hot water and whisk briskly in a zigzag motion until frothy and fully dissolved.
- Gently steam and froth your milk to 150°F–160°F. Avoid overheating.
- Pour the steamed milk into your mug with the matcha.
- Sweeten if desired, stir gently, and enjoy.
Notes
- No steamer? Heat the milk gently on the stove (but not boiling), then froth it with a whisk or handheld frother, or shake warm milk in a covered jar for 30–60 seconds.
- Plant-based milk froth better when cold-steamed or gently heated.
- For extra flavor, add a splash of vanilla and/or a pinch of cinnamon.
Nutrition
Julie Gaeta is a plant-based recipe creator, certified Integrative Nutrition Health Coach, and mom of nine who's been plant-based for over 20 years. She's cooked approximately 4,382 pots of beans and can't vacation without her juicer and pasta pot. Her work has been featured in HuffPost, Yahoo, YourTango, and other major outlets. She helps others simplify wellness and feel good again through her blog, coaching, and weekly newsletter.
Julie Gaeta says
These are my go-to matcha recipes—iced, creamy, or traditional. Super easy, so good, and the perfect little pick-me-up!