Matcha Coffee Recipe: A Fusion of Tradition and Modern Coffee Culture
Blending rich coffee with vibrant green matcha creates an invigorating drink that tantalizes taste buds and offers a refreshing twist on traditional coffee.
In this article, we’ll share a matcha coffee recipe in both millilitres and other metric measurements to ensure relevancy for a global audience.
But first, let’s explore the fascinating history of the latte and some statistics on this beloved beverage.
Matcha Coffee Recipe
This recipe combines matcha’s earthy, nuanced flavours with the bold taste of coffee, creating a delicious beverage that offers the best of both worlds.
Matcha Latte Ingredients
- Matcha Powder: 5 grams (1 teaspoon)
- Hot Water: 60 ml (2 oz) at approximately 80°C (176°F)
- Espresso: 30 ml (1 oz) of espresso shot
- Milk: 150 ml (5 oz) of steamed milk
- Sweetener: Optional – sweeten to taste with sugar, honey, or another sweetener
Instructions
Creating the ideal matcha coffee requires attention to detail and high-quality ingredients.
Start with freshly brewed espresso or strong coffee as the base.
Next, whisk high-grade matcha powder with a small amount of hot water to create a smooth paste.
Combine the matcha paste with the coffee and add steamed milk for a latte-like consistency.
For those who prefer a stronger coffee flavour, the ratio of coffee to matcha can be adjusted accordingly.
Experimenting with different ratios and preparation methods can help you find your perfect matcha coffee blend
1. Prepare Matcha: In a bowl, whisk the matcha powder with hot water until smooth and frothy.
2. Brew Espresso: Brew a shot of espresso using your preferred methods, such as an espresso machine or moka pot.
3. Steam Milk: Heat the milk in a milk steamer or saucepan until it reaches about 65-70°C (150-160°F). For precision, use a thermometer.
4. Combine: In a mug, pour the prepared matcha, then add the espresso shot.
5. Add Milk: Pour the steamed milk over the matcha and espresso mixture.
6. Optional Sweetening: Add a sweetener of your choice to enhance the flavor.
7. Stir and Serve: Stir the mixture to blend the flavours and serve immediately.
The Ancient Roots of Matcha
Matcha, a finely ground powder of specially grown and processed green tea leaves, has a rich history that dates back centuries.
Originally discovered in China during the 12th century, matcha was brought to Japan by a Buddhist monk named Myoan Eisai, who recognized its potential to enhance meditation practices (Asirecreation.org, 2023).
This introduction marked the beginning of a long and storied relationship between matcha and Japanese culture, eventually leading to its global popularity and integration into various culinary traditions, including coffee.
The Journey from China to Japan
When Eisai brought matcha to Japan, he couldn’t have anticipated the profound impact it would have on Japanese culture and, eventually, the global beverage landscape.
The monk observed that matcha induced a state of calm alertness during meditation, an effect attributed to its unique combination of caffeine and L-theanine (Asirecreation.org, 2023).
This discovery led to matcha becoming an integral part of Japanese Zen Buddhism and the development of the elaborate Japanese Tea Ceremony, known as “Chado” or “Sado” (The Way of Tea).
The Cultivation of Matcha
What sets matcha apart from other green teas is its unique cultivation and processing method.
The tea plants used for matcha are shade-grown for three to four weeks before harvest, a technique that increases chlorophyll production and enhances the tea’s flavour and nutritional profile (Wikipedia, 2024).
After harvesting, the stems and veins are removed from the leaves, which are then stone-ground into a fine powder.
This meticulous process results in a vibrant green powder that is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.
The Rise of Matcha in the West
While matcha has been a staple in Japanese culture for centuries, its popularity in the West has surged in recent years.
This rise can be attributed to increased awareness of its health benefits and its versatility as an ingredient in various food and beverage applications.
As Western consumers became more health-conscious and sought alternatives to traditional coffee, matcha emerged as a compelling option.
The Birth of the Matcha Coffee Recipe
The concept of combining matcha with coffee is a relatively recent innovation, born from the desire to blend the best of both worlds.
Matcha coffee, also known as “matchaccino” or “green tea latte,” offers a unique flavor profile that appeals to both coffee and tea enthusiasts.
This fusion beverage typically consists of a shot of espresso or strong brewed coffee mixed with matcha powder and steamed milk, creating a drink that is both energizing and soothing.
The Health Benefits of Matcha Coffee
One of the primary reasons for the growing popularity of matcha coffee is its impressive array of health benefits.
By combining the antioxidant-rich properties of matcha with the stimulating effects of coffee, this beverage offers a unique set of advantages for health-conscious consumers.
Antioxidant Powerhouse
Matcha is renowned for its high concentration of catechins, particularly epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), a potent antioxidant that has been linked to various health benefits.
Studies have shown that EGCG may help protect against cellular damage, reduce inflammation, and potentially lower the risk of certain chronic diseases (Kochman et al., 2021).
When combined with coffee, which also contains antioxidants, the resulting beverage becomes a formidable source of these beneficial compounds.
Enhanced Cognitive Function
Both matcha and coffee contain caffeine, a natural stimulant known for its ability to improve alertness and cognitive function.
However, matcha also contains L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes relaxation without drowsiness.
This unique combination of caffeine and L-theanine in matcha coffee can result in a state of “calm alertness,” providing sustained energy without the jitters often associated with coffee consumption (Dietz et al., 2017).
Metabolism Boost
Green tea, including matcha, has long been associated with potential weight loss benefits due to its ability to boost metabolism.
Research suggests that the combination of caffeine and catechins in green tea can increase fat oxidation and energy expenditure (Hursel et al., 2011).
When matcha is combined with coffee, these effects may be amplified, potentially supporting weight management efforts.
Heart Health Support
Both matcha and coffee have been linked to potential cardiovascular benefits.
Studies have shown that regular consumption of green tea may help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease (Pang et al., 2016).
Similarly, moderate coffee consumption has been associated with a reduced risk of heart disease and stroke (Poole et al., 2017).
By combining these two beverages, matcha coffee may offer comprehensive support for heart health.
The Flavor Profile of Matcha Coffee
Matcha coffee offers a unique and complex flavour profile that sets it apart from both traditional coffee and pure matcha drinks.
The combination of earthy, grassy notes from the matcha and the rich, bold flavours of coffee creates a harmonious blend that appeals to a wide range of palates.
The slight bitterness of matcha is often balanced by the natural sweetness of steamed milk, resulting in a smooth and creamy beverage.
Many enthusiasts describe the taste as a perfect balance between the umami flavours of matcha and the roasted notes of coffee.
The Cultural Impact of Matcha Coffee
The rise of matcha coffee represents more than just a new beverage trend; it symbolizes the increasing globalization of food and drink culture.
This fusion of Japanese and Western traditions reflects a growing appreciation for cross-cultural culinary experiences.
As matcha coffee gains popularity, it’s not uncommon to find it featured prominently in cafes and coffee shops around the world, alongside traditional espresso-based drinks.
This integration of matcha into mainstream coffee culture has opened up new avenues for creativity in the beverage industry.
Sustainability Considerations
As the popularity of matcha coffee grows, it’s important to consider the sustainability implications of this trend.
Matcha production is labour-intensive and requires specific growing conditions, which can put pressure on agricultural resources.
However, many matcha producers are adopting sustainable farming practices, such as organic cultivation and responsible land management.
When choosing matcha for your coffee blend, look for products that are certified organic and sourced from reputable producers who prioritize sustainability.
The Future of Matcha Coffee
As consumer interest in functional beverages and unique flavour experiences continues to grow, the future of matcha coffee looks promising.
We can expect to see further innovations in matcha coffee products, including ready-to-drink options, flavoured variations, and even matcha coffee-based desserts.
Additionally, as research into the health benefits of both matcha and coffee progresses, we may gain new insights into the potential synergistic effects of combining these two popular beverages.
Conclusion: Embracing the Best of Both Worlds
Matcha coffee represents a beautiful fusion of Eastern and Western beverage traditions, offering a unique taste experience and a host of potential health benefits.
By combining the antioxidant-rich properties of matcha with the beloved flavour and energy boost of coffee, this innovative drink appeals to health-conscious consumers and flavour enthusiasts alike.
As we continue to explore new ways to enjoy our daily caffeine fix, matcha coffee stands out as a testament to the endless possibilities that arise when we blend different culinary traditions.
Whether you’re a die-hard coffee lover looking to expand your palate or a matcha enthusiast curious about new flavour combinations, matcha coffee offers an exciting avenue for exploration.
So why not give this green-meets-brown beverage a try?
You might just discover your new favourite way to start the day.
References
Asirecreation.org (2023) The History of Matcha. Available at: https://www.asirecreation.org/recreport/special-feature/701-the-history-of-matcha (Accessed: 22 September 2024).
Dietz, C., Dekker, M. and Piqueras-Fiszman, B. (2017) ‘An intervention study on the effect of matcha tea, in drink and snack bar formats, on mood and cognitive performance’, Food Research International, 99, pp. 72-83.
Hursel, R., Viechtbauer, W. and Westerterp-Plantenga, M.S. (2011) ‘The effects of green tea on weight loss and weight maintenance: a meta-analysis’, International Journal of Obesity, 35(7), pp. 1299-1310.
Kochman, J., Jakubczyk, K., Antoniewicz, J., Mruk, H. and Janda, K. (2021) ‘Health Benefits and Chemical Composition of Matcha Green Tea: A Review’, Molecules, 26(1), p. 85.
Pang, J., Zhang, Z., Zheng, T.Z., Bassig, B.A., Mao, C., Liu, X., Zhu, Y., Shi, K., Ge, J., Yang, Y.J. and Dejia-Huang (2016) ‘Green tea consumption and risk of cardiovascular and ischemic related diseases: A meta-analysis’, International Journal of Cardiology, 202, pp. 967-974.
Poole, R., Kennedy, O.J., Roderick, P., Fallowfield, J.A., Hayes, P.C. and Parkes, J. (2017) ‘Coffee consumption and health: umbrella review of meta-analyses of multiple health outcomes’, BMJ, 359, p. j5024.
Wikipedia (2024) Matcha. Available at: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Matcha (Accessed: 22 September 2024).
Citations
[1] https://www.asirecreation.org/recreport/special-feature/701-the-history-of-matcha
[2] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Matcha
[3] https://magazine.coffee/blog/9/5761/the-matcha-story
[4] https://www.reddit.com/r/tea/comments/cij7up/where_did_the_matcha_latte_originate/
[5] https://perfectdailygrind.com/2022/06/what-is-a-flat-white/
[6] https://eggsoldiers.co.uk/insights-lab/the-future-of-coffee-three-uk-opportunity-areas-2024
[7] https://esquirescoffee.co.uk/news/trends-uk-coffee-shop-industry/
[8] https://freshground.co.uk/learning-hub/is-the-uk-coffee-market-growing/