Making the perfect traditional matcha isn't difficult
These days, you find matcha in all shapes and sizes: matcha lattes, matcha cookies, matcha ice cream… And honestly, they're all delicious. But if you really want to do it right, like the Japanese have done for generations, you'll opt for a traditional preparation . Making matcha is more than just brewing tea—it's a moment for yourself. But how do you make that perfect matcha with a creamy foam?
First, some background information: the Japanese tea ceremony revolves around four principles :
- Harmony (Wa)
- Respect (Kei)
- Purity (Sei)
- Rest (Jaku)
In Japan, the ceremony is performed quietly, with great attention and respect, using carefully selected tools. There 's a stark difference between simply making matcha and preparing a truly traditional matcha . Traditional matcha isn't just about the drink itself, but also about the experience . It's a moment of peace for yourself, a mindful ritual.
Why traditional matcha?
- You taste the pure, full flavour of the tea
- You only use high-quality, ceremonial matcha
- You prepare the matcha with care, attention and with the right tools
What traditional preparations are there?
Koicha – "thick tea," prepared in formal tea ceremonies. It's made with more matcha and less water, stirred instead of whisked.
Usucha – “thin tea”, prepared as described below.
- Choose a high-quality matcha. Cheap matcha often tastes bitter.
- choose a large bowl (chawan) with a diameter of about 13 cm in which you whisk the matcha
- Fill the chawan briefly with hot water, pour the water away and dry the bowl carefully.
- use a bamboo spoon (chasuku) for easy dosing of the Matcha. To taste, add 1-2 grams (1-2 bamboo spoons) to the bowl.
- By sieving the matcha first you prevent lumps and ensure a light, smooth drink
- Add about 60–70 ml of water at 70–80°C. Never use boiling water; this will burn the matcha and make it bitter.
- Choose a good matcha whisk (or chasen) of at least 100 pongs. This is specially designed to create a perfect foam layer.
- Hold the bowl with one hand and tap vigorously with the bamboo whisk in a "W" shaped motion
- Continue whisking until a creamy foam forms. This usually takes about 15 to 30 seconds.
- lift the bowl with both hands, bow slightly as a sign of gratitude and drink the bowl in a few gulps
- enjoy the whole ritual!
Extra tips for extra tasty matcha
- Use ceremonial-grade matcha . This comes from the first harvest in early spring and has a bright green color. High-quality matcha produces a silky-smooth foam and a creamy flavor for the ultimate matcha experience.
- sieve the matcha for an extra airy result
- use filtered water for a pure taste
- Rinse your bamboo whisk before and after use with warm water (never wash with soap!)
- store matcha in an airtight container in the refrigerator, away from light and air
- Use a scale if you want to be really precise (1 gram is usually enough for preparation with ceremonial matcha).
What does traditional matcha do for you?
A traditional matcha preparation stimulates all the senses :
- see: the bright, vivid green color
- smell: the grassy, fresh aroma
- taste : the umami and velvety foam on your lips
- feel: the warmth of the bowl in your hands
- hear: the soft sound of the bamboo beater tapping
What's more, matcha contains L-theanine , an amino acid that promotes focus and relaxation. And combined with caffeine, which gives you that little bit of energy —without the crash you sometimes get with coffee—you'll feel alert and zen at the same time. Just what we want in this busy world, right? Matcha is also an antioxidant powerhouse. It contains 137 times more antioxidants than regular green tea . Good for your skin. heart, brain and immune system.
Traditional, but also completely contemporary!
This authentic way of preparing matcha is all the rage these days . It fits perfectly into a healthy lifestyle. You're not just making tea; you're consciously choosing quality, tranquility, and attention .
Try it yourself! Make your first traditional matcha tea with the steps above and feel how mindful your morning suddenly becomes. Order a matcha starter kit or one of our luxury matcha sets with all the tools you need for traditional matcha preparation and experience the difference.