Making Real Japanese Matcha at Home
Matcha is more than just green tea but it’s a bright green drink that tastes great and is a calming ritual. The famous finely milled powder is the main part of the Japanese tea ritual which is all about tradition and being present. Making real matcha at home might seem hard, but it’s really not that difficult, with the help of a few special tools the rich umami flavor and creamy texture of a perfectly whisked bowl right in your own home can be achieved.
The Art of Matcha
Getting Your Things Together
A bamboo whisk (chasen), a bamboo scoop (chashaku), and a matcha bowl (chawan) are all things you will need. These gadgets are made just for whisking matcha till it is perfectly frothy. First, fill your matcha bowl with hot water to warm it up. Then, throw away the water and dry the bowl completely. This helps keep the tea warm. Also, make sure that your matcha powder is fresh and of good quality. Ceremonial grade matcha will taste and look the best.
Whisking Your Way to the Best
Put around 1–2 scoops (about 1–2 grams) of matcha powder into your hot bowl with your chashaku scoop. To keep lumps from forming, it’s a good idea to sift the matcha through a fine mesh strainer, then add 2 to 3 ounces of hot water immediately. Take note to not use boiling water because it can burn the tea. This is the time to whisk already by using only your wrist to hold the bowl steady and quickly whisk the matcha in a W or M motion. Whisk until a thick, bright green froth with little bubbles develops on top. It normally takes 15 to 30 seconds. More foam is preferable.
Summary
Making real Japanese matcha tea at home is a very satisfying thing to do. It’s a time to relax, a flavor of tradition, and a tasty, healthful drink. If you have the correct tools and practice a little, you can make that ideal frothy bowl of matcha that will bring a little peace and quiet into your busy day. Enjoy your matcha masterpiece that you produced yourself!
