In the last few years, we have seen matcha popping up everywhere – in lattes, ice cream, smoothies, icing, baked goods, skincare and more. So where did this health craze start and why? Was it in the Instagram feeds of perfectly put together wellness influencers or the menus of Japanese bakeries popping up in the trendiest neighbourhoods of New York, LA and London?
The short answer is, no one knows.
What we do know is that since it burst onto the scene people have been falling in love with this beautiful, powerful green powder and we’re no different.
What is Matcha?
Matcha is a Japanese green tea powder made from finely powdered dried tea leaves. It has a slightly bitter, vegetal taste and a vibrant green colour thanks to the leaves’ high chlorophyll levels and has been the cornerstone of traditional Japanese tea ceremonies for centuries.
Regular green tea has, for years, been touted as an antioxidant powerhouse, but matcha has even more purported benefits – with other forms of green tea steeped in hot water and then discarded. When you make matcha, you whisk the powder into hot water or milk and as a result, consume the entire tea leaf.
Reportedly the antioxidants found in matcha may lower blood pressure, reduce your risk of heart disease, and even boost your metabolism.
Is matcha a caffeine-free alternative to coffee?
Matcha contains around 70mg of caffeine per 8oz (240ml) cup which is more than regular green tea, but compared to coffee with around 96mg of caffeine per 8oz (240ml) cup, it has a much lower dose per serving. Matcha doesn’t give you the same kind of buzz that coffee does, in fact, it leaves most people feeling energized and focused, but still calm.
Typically, matcha is prepared with a special bamboo whisk called a chasen, its special design breaks up clumps and creates a frothy layer of foam on top of the tea. However, a regular whisk works just fine.
How to Make a Zuma Matcha Iced Latte
Zuma Matcha is made from specially grown and processed green tea and has a fresh, grassy flavour. High in fibre and protein and nothing has been added in or taken away. It is perfect for adding to smoothies and frappés, or in your favourite bakes.
