Matcha Green Tea Guide (Plus Traditional & Latte Recipes)

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Written By Julie
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Immerse yourself in the ritual of calm energy and wellness with matcha — packed with antioxidants, bold flavors, and endless possibilities, from soothing traditional sips to indulgent lattes.

Matcha Green Tea Guide (Plus Traditional & Latte Recipes)

Written by Julie on December 3, 2021 — Updated January 8, 2025

My journey with matcha began in the early 2000s when I first dove into holistic wellness — and it’s been a grounding ritual ever since. I’d just started following Dr. Andrew Weil, a matcha enthusiast, who spoke highly of its numerous health benefits. His passion was contagious, and I’ve been hooked ever since. 

Matcha is a treasured part of my morning and wellness routine, which I genuinely look forward to each day. I love iced matcha lattes in warmer weather and switch to a warm mug in the cooler months. It’s an energizing ritual that always feels like self-care.

Whether you’re new to matcha or just want to learn a bit more, you’re in the right place. 

Matcha powder in a small wooden bowl

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, help combat free radicals, support skin health, boost immunity, and promote overall wellness.

  • L-theanine: an amino acid found in matcha, promotes relaxation, helps manage stress levels, and increases focus. 

  • Fiber, vitamins, and minerals: A nutritional boost in every sip.

  • Anti-inflammatory and antiviral effects: Matcha powder may offer promising protective benefits for the heart. 

  • 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. Promoting alertness while reducing stress, 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

Matcha being sifted into a bowl

1. Sift the matcha

Sift matcha powder into a bowl to remove any clumps.

Matcha being whisked with a bamboo whisk

2. Whisk with hot water

Add hot water to the bowl. Whisk briskly in a zigzag motion until the matcha is frothy and fully dissolved.

Matcha pouring into a glass with ice cubes

3. Pour over ice cubes

Fill your glass with ice cubes, and pour in the matcha and sweetener if desired.

Milk pouring into a glass with matcha and ice cubes

4. Pour in milk

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.

Foamy milk pouring into a glass with matcha

How to choose matcha

  • 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 

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.

Iced matcha latte in a tall glass with ice cubes

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 tsp 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

Traditional Matcha Latte in a Bowl

Top favorite matcha picks

Suggested recipes 

FAQ

  • Is matcha the same as green tea?
    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.

  • Can I cook with matcha?
    Yes! Matcha is perfect for baking cookies, and cakes, or adding to smoothies and oatmeal. Use culinary-grade matcha for recipes.

  • Can matcha help with weight loss?
    Matcha’s catechins may support fat metabolism, making it a popular choice for those pursuing a healthy lifestyle.

  • What if I don’t have traditional tools?
    No worries! A simple bowl and small whisk works wonders. You can even shake it up in a jar in a pinch.

  • How should I store matcha?
    An airtight container in a cool, dark place is best. The fridge works well to extend its freshness.

Iced Matcha Latte

YIELDS: 1
AUTHOR: Julie Gaeta
Iced Matcha Latte Recipe

Iced Matcha Latte Recipe

PREP TIME: 5 MinTOTAL TIME: 5 Min
Chilled, creamy, and energizing - an iced matcha latte is the ultimate pick-me-up.
Cook modePrevent screen from turning off

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Sift the matcha powder into a glass.
  2. Add 2 oz hot water and whisk until frothy. Let it cool slightly.
  3. Fill the glass with ice cubes, then pour in the cold milk.
  4. Sweeten if desired, stir gently, and enjoy.
  5. s
  6. Sift matcha powder into a bowl to remove clumps.
  7. Add 2 oz hot water (160°F–175°F, not boiling).
  8. Whisk in a zigzag motion until smooth and frothy.
  9. Fill a glass with ice cubes, then pour in the matcha, and sweeten to taste if desired.
  10. 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.


https://becomingyouwithjulie.com/recipes/matcha-green-tea
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Traditional Matcha Latte

YIELDS: 1
AUTHOR: Julie Gaeta
Traditional Matcha Tea

Traditional Matcha Tea

PREP TIME: 5 MinTOTAL TIME: 5 Min
A frothy brew that delivers pure, earthy matcha flavor and a calm energy boost.
Cook modePrevent screen from turning off

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Sift matcha powder into a bowl to remove clumps.
  2. Add 2 oz hot water (160°F–175°F, not boiling).
  3. Whisk briskly in a zigzag motion until frothy.
  4. Add 5–7 oz of hot water to dilute the tea to your desired strength (lighter or stronger tea).
  5. 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.

https://becomingyouwithjulie.com/recipes/matcha-green-tea
DID YOU MAKE THIS RECIPE?
Tag @becomingyouwithjulie on instagram and hashtag it #BYWJ

Creamy Matcha Latte

YIELDS: 1
AUTHOR: Julie Gaeta
Creamy Matcha Latte

Creamy Matcha Latte

PREP TIME: 5 MinTOTAL TIME: 5 Min
A velvety blend of matcha - creamy, warming, and energizing without the jitters - a little indulgence that feels like self-care.
Cook modePrevent screen from turning off

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Sift matcha powder into a mug to prevent clumping.
  2. Add 2 oz hot water and whisk briskly in a zigzag motion until frothy and fully dissolved.
  3. Gently steam and froth your milk to 150°F–160°F. Avoid overheating.
  4. Pour the steamed milk into your mug with the matcha.
  5. 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.



https://becomingyouwithjulie.com/recipes/matcha-green-tea
DID YOU MAKE THIS RECIPE?
Tag @becomingyouwithjulie on instagram and hashtag it #BYWJ

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Julie https://becomingyouwithjulie.com
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