The green tea derivative is known for its invigorating qualities
With its distinct bright green colour, unique taste, and numerous health benefits, matcha powder has become one of today’s most popular superfoods. Originating in Japan, matcha is processed from finely ground tea leaves to form a powder. The benefits of consuming matcha include helping to lower blood sugar, boost metabolism, detoxify the body, and calm the mind. Unlike other teas, which are made through leaf infusion, matcha is produced by grinding up whole tea leaves to create a powder that can be incorporated into almost any recipe. Frequently seen in items such as lattes, muffins, smoothies, breads, and even ice cream, matcha is not only a nutrient-rich superfood, but also contains 10 times more antioxidants than one cup of green tea.
Some consumers may turn to matcha as a way to detoxify the body, while others are drawn to its natural mood-enhancing properties. Traditionally consumed by Buddhist monks to assist in meditation, matcha offers a persistent calm feeling throughout the day while also providing a strong energy boost.
With two grams of matcha containing as much caffeine as an espresso, many users are turning to the substance as an alternative to coffee. Unlike other products, matcha releases caffeine at a gradual pace throughout the day, preventing the consumer from experiencing the “crash and burn” effects of other caffeinated beverages like coffee and energy drinks.
You have no doubt noticed multiple coffee shops and stores beginning to sell matcha-infused products, like Starbucks’ matcha latte and the multiple matcha flavours found at David’s Tea, including peach, strawberry, and maple. Consumers are turning to these options, however, with the belief that they are receiving all the added benefits and making a health-conscious choice, when in fact they are causing more harm to their bodies than good.On her blog, nutritionist Carla Golden writes: “someone choosing Starbucks’ matcha to help control their blood sugar imbalance is being pumped up with inflammatory, acidic sugar. It’s criminal!”
It may be easy to believe that ordering a “matcha drink” in a coffee shop is a smart choice, but the best option is to brew one for yourself at home. Since its recent surge in popularity, matcha is available in powdered form at almost any health food store — even some grocery stores (check out the Metro on Edinburgh). By following these simple steps in the recipe below, you can now start your morning off right with this powerful drink and feel energized all through the day.
Matcha Latte Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon of matcha powder
- 2 teaspoons of sweetener, such as honey or maple syrup
- ¼ cup hot water
- 1 cup of milk (can be plant-based)
Directions
1. Add the matcha powder, along with the hot water and sweetener into a mug.
2. Using a bamboo or metal whisk, blend the powder with the water until it forms a paste.
3. Meanwhile, heat up your milk in a saucepan until it becomes warm.
4. Once the matcha has completely dissolved, add in the warm milk and enjoy!
Note: If you’d like a little more flavour, try adding some vanilla extract and cinnamon.
Photo by Madigan Cotterill