At Fish River HQ, we spend most of our time talking coffee. But when the conversation turns to non-coffee drinks, there's one that keeps coming up - Matcha.
Matcha-based drinks are one of the fastest-growing trends in cafés right now. Whether it’s a hot matcha latte, an iced matcha with oat milk, or a creative matcha fusion, it’s clear that this vibrant green tea is here to stay. So, what exactly is matcha, and how do you prepare it?
What Is Matcha?
Matcha is a finely ground green tea powder made from the same tea plant that all tea comes from, Camelia Sensis, but it is shade-grown to give its signature bright green colour and grassy, earthy flavour. The leaves are steamed, dried and ground to make Matcha.
Unlike regular green tea, where leaves are steeped and discarded, matcha is whisked directly into water or milk, meaning you consume the entire tea leaf - and all of its nutrients.
Traditionally, matcha is prepared in Japanese tea ceremonies using a bamboo whisk (chasen), but in a café or home setting, you can make do with whatever tools you have.
How to Prepare Matcha: Step-by-Step
- Start with Quality Matcha: Good matcha has a vibrant green colour and a fine, smooth texture. Avoid dull, yellowish-green powders, as they tend to be lower quality and more bitter.
- Measure the Matcha: Use 1 teaspoon (around 2 grams) of matcha powder. For a stronger flavour, you can adjust slightly.
- Add Hot Water: Pour 25ml of hot water (around 80°C, not boiling) over the matcha. Using water that’s too hot can make it taste bitter.
- Whisk Until Frothy: Traditionally, matcha is whisked in a bowl using a chasen (bamboo whisk) in a quick "M" or "W" motion until it’s smooth and frothy. No chasen? Use a small milk frother, an electric whisk, or shake it in a sealed jar.
- Choose Your Base: From here, you can drink it straight or add more liquid. For traditional matcha tea, add more hot water (up to 250ml). For a matcha latte, add warm milk (dairy or plant-based) instead of water. For an iced matcha latte, pour over ice and cold milk for a refreshing version.
Matcha in Cafés: A Trend on the Rise
Matcha has taken off in cafés, and it’s not just about the classic matcha latte anymore. The Instagram generation has embraced matcha with fun, colourful creations, like:
- Strawberry Matcha Lattes
- Peach Iced Matcha
- Pistachio Matcha Lattes
- Matcha Frappés
Not only does matcha look great in a cup, but it’s also packed with amino acids, antioxidants, and a gentle caffeine boost, making it a popular alternative to coffee.
