Glossary - Ingredients

Matcha

Powdered green tea used in Japanese tea ceremony, cooking and sweets

What is matcha?

Matcha (抹茶 in Japanese) is tea leaves grown without direct sunlight then steamed and dried, and lastly ground to powder in a millstone. In Japanese tea ceremony, matcha is mixed with hot water using a "chasen" (bamboo whisk) before drinking. Also, it is used in "wagashi" (Japanese-style confectionery), ice creams and many other desserts, as well as in matcha lattes and more.

Nutrition facts

Matcha is rich in protein, dietary fiber, potassium, calcium, iron, zinc, beta-carotene, vitamin E, vitamin K, vitamin B12, folic acid, and vitamin C. In addition, catechin, the component that gives tea its astringency and bitterness, has antioxidant and antibacterial effects, and has been studied for its preventive effects against various lifestyle-related diseases. This tea also contains theanine and caffeine, which are useful for improving concentration and maintaining brain health.
Matcha is made by grinding whole tea leaves, allowing consumption of nutrients contained in the entire leaf. For this reason, it is richer in nutrients than green tea. However, it also contains a lot of caffeine. One 60 ml (2 fl. oz.) cup of matcha contains about 50 mg of caffeine.

Storage to prevent food loss

Store in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. Storage in a refrigerator is not recommended as condensation may form when removed, which can lead to a deterioration in quality and even spoilage.

Trivia

The tea ceremony is a practice of self-reflection and human connection centered around a bowl of tea. Even without traditional tea utensils, simply mix matcha in hot water and enjoy it slowly to experience a moment of mindfulness.