Matcha, a powdered form of green tea, is well-known for its numerous health benefits, but did you know that many people are drinking it in a way that may be harmful to their health?
If you find your Matcha tasting bitter and grainy, you might be tempted to add unhealthy additives such as sugar, cream, or high-fat milk to improve its flavor.
However, this can add hundreds of unnecessary calories to your drink.
So, how can you make your Matcha taste better without compromising your health?
The key is to opt for a higher grade Matcha, like ceremonial Matcha.
Ceremonial Matcha is of superior quality, and it offers several benefits that go beyond its exquisite taste.
Unlike lower-quality Matcha, ceremonial Matcha has a naturally sweet flavor, eliminating the need for any sweeteners or unhealthy additives.
By choosing ceremonial Matcha, you can enjoy a healthier Matcha experience without sacrificing taste.
This high-grade Matcha is carefully cultivated and stone-ground, ensuring that you receive maximum nutritional value and antioxidants with every sip.
Additionally, ceremonial Matcha provides sustained energy and mental clarity, thanks to its unique combination of caffeine and amino acids, such as L-theanine, which promotes a calm, focused state of mind.
If you're eager to explore the world of ceremonial Matcha and improve your overall well-being, try this Matcha.
For a limited time, you can claim 1 week of free Ceremonial Matcha here (with every Starter Kit).
This is a fantastic opportunity to experience the delicious taste and health benefits of high-quality Matcha.
When it comes to the food and beverages we consume, the term "organic" has gained significant attention.
But what does organic actually mean?
In simple terms, organic refers to the way plants are grown without the use of synthetic pesticides, chemicals, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs).
For example, organic tea is cultivated without the assistance of harmful pesticides and other chemicals that could potentially enter our bodies upon consumption.
But why is it important to choose organic products, particularly when it comes to tea?
Tea is often consumed without being washed first.
This means that any chemicals or pesticides used during its cultivation can remain on the leaves when we steep them in hot water.
By opting for organic tea, we can eliminate the potential risks associated with consuming these harmful substances.
Organic tea gives us peace of mind, knowing that we are sipping on a natural beverage free from residues.
It's worth noting that some variations, such as organic Matcha, come with a slightly higher price tag.
If you've ever wondered why organic Matcha might be pricier than its non-organic counterparts, the answer lies in its cultivation process.
Producing organic Matcha involves growing tea plants without the use of pesticides or other chemicals. This makes it more challenging for tea farmers to protect their crops from pests and diseases.
Without the assistance of synthetic interventions, farmers must rely on natural pest management techniques and strategic cultivation methods to ensure the health and vitality of their tea plants.
The additional effort required for organic farming leads to higher production costs, resulting in organic Matcha being priced slightly higher compared to conventionally grown Matcha.
When it comes to choosing between organic and non-organic matcha, there's more to consider than meets the eye.
Some argue that non-organic Matcha tastes better.
Often, this is because the tea plants are better able to grow with the chemicals and fertilisers used during traditional cultivation.
In addition, traditional cultivation has been practiced for hundreds of years, leading to strong expertise in the Japanese Matcha farming communities.
In contrast, organic Matcha cultivation is still a nascent practice.
However, the growing interest in organic and sustainable practices has paved the way for the cultivation of high-quality organic matcha as well.
As demand for organic options increases, artisans are adapting their methods to include organic practices without compromising on taste and quality.
Organic matcha is often considered healthier due to its reduced exposure to synthetic chemicals.
Pesticides and synthetic fertilizers can leave residues on tea leaves, which might be ingested when consuming the tea.
While the long-term health impacts of these residues might not be fully understood, many people choose organic products to reduce their potential exposure to these substances.
Ultimately, the decision to choose organic or non-organic matcha depends on individual priorities.
If health and reducing exposure to synthetic chemicals are important to you, organic Matcha might be the preferable choice.
However, if you are not drinking Matcha too frequently and less concerned with exposure to chemicals, you can try non-organic matcha.
Understanding the meaning of organic is crucial when it comes to making informed choices about the food and beverages we consume.
Opting for organic tea provides numerous benefits, including the absence of harmful chemicals and pesticides, increased nutrient content, and a positive impact on the environment.
While organic Matcha may be slightly more expensive, the extra cost reflects the extensive care and effort put into its cultivation using sustainable practices.
Green Tea: The Natural Remedy to Water Retention and Bloating
We did research and here's what we found.
7 Min Read
Most people are often unaware that they are experiencing water retention despite the discomfort and visible signs it may present.
Some might even mistake water retention for weight gain or menstrual bloating, or simply dismiss it as a temporary fluctuation in their body's appearance. The symptom of water retention can be very subtle so that’s why it is easily overlooked, especially in mild cases.
Your body contains mostly water, comprising vital components such as blood, muscles, organs, and even bones. While water is essential for your well-being, there are instances when the body retains an excessive amount of it, leading to the discomfort of water retention, characterized by puffiness and swelling.
Water retention, or edema, can be a bothersome condition that affects many people, leading to puffiness, swelling, and discomfort in some parts of the body.
However, these effects can be reduced with Diuretics, commonly known as “water pills”. Diuretics are a class of drugs that increase the production of urine and help your body get rid of excess water.
If you are wary of prescription drugs, some herbs, and dietary supplements have diuretic properties that may be helpful to you.
One of the most celebrated from our nature is Green tea. Green tea is a popular beverage that has been consumed for centuries for its health benefits. It is made from the leaves of the Camellia Sinensis plant, which are steamed or roasted to prevent oxidation.
One of the potential benefits of green tea is its ability to reduce water retention. Green tea extract has the ability to increase urine output in people with water retention.[1] Among the biologically active compounds that are found in Green tea, there is this main antioxidant agent called catechins, which are believed to be responsible for many of green tea's health benefits.[2]
In this article, we will explore the fascinating properties of green tea drinks and how they can effectively reduce water retention while promoting overall health. We will delve into the underlying causes of water retention, examine the scientific research behind green tea's diuretic effects, discuss its impact on bloating, and highlight why incorporating green tea into your daily routine is a wise choice for your well-being.
Get ready to unlock the power of green tea and discover a natural and refreshing solution to water retention.
Before we delve into the remarkable effects of green tea, let's first understand what water retention is and why it occurs.
Water retention, also known as edema, refers to the accumulation of excess fluid in the body's tissues. Normally, the body maintains a delicate balance of fluid levels, with the kidneys helping to regulate the amount of water and electrolytes in the body. However, various factors can disrupt this balance, leading to an abnormal buildup of fluid.
Water retention can occur throughout the body, but it is most commonly noticed in the extremities, such as the hands, feet, ankles, and legs. It can also affect other areas, including the abdomen, face, and lungs.[3] The excess fluid causes swelling, puffiness, and a feeling of heaviness or tightness in the affected areas.
Many reasons can be the causes of water retention. These include:
Fluctuations in hormone levels, particularly during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, or menopause, can lead to water retention.[4]
Consuming excessive amounts of sodium (salt) can cause the body to retain water. The kidneys try to maintain a balance by retaining water to dilute the excess salt.[5]
Certain conditions that impair blood flow, such as varicose veins or deep vein thrombosis (DVT), can contribute to fluid buildup in the affected areas.
Being in a sedentary position for long periods or standing for extended periods without movement can hinder proper circulation and contribute to water retention.[6]
Certain medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), calcium channel blockers, and corticosteroids, may cause fluid retention as a side effect.
Various health conditions, including heart failure, kidney disease, liver disease, thyroid disorders, and lymphatic system disorders, can disrupt fluid balance and lead to water retention.[7]
Green tea, a popular beverage derived from the Camellia Sinensis plant, has long been hailed for its potential health benefits. Among its many properties, green tea possesses diuretic effects that can aid in reducing water retention.
Green tea owes its diuretic properties to various bioactive compounds present in its leaves. Catechins, a type of flavonoid, are particularly abundant in green tea and are believed to contribute to its diuretic effects.[8]
Additionally, green tea contains caffeine, which acts as a mild diuretic. Caffeine inhibits the reabsorption of water in the kidneys, resulting in increased urine output.[9] It's worth noting that the diuretic effect of green tea is relatively mild compared to prescription diuretics, allowing for a more balanced elimination of fluid without significant electrolyte imbalances.
Bloating, characterized by a feeling of fullness, bloating, characterized by a feeling of fullness, tightness, and abdominal discomfort, is a common symptom often associated with water retention.
Many individuals who experience water retention also find themselves dealing with bloating. This feeling can be both physically and emotionally distressing.
As a natural diuretic, green tea can help flush out excess fluid, reducing the bloating sensation. Green tea contains polyphenols, such as catechins and flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory effects. Inflammation in the digestive tract can contribute to bloating, and the anti-inflammatory properties of green tea may help to ease gastrointestinal discomfort.[10]
Green tea also has a soothing effect on the digestive system, which can aid in relieving bloating. It acts as a digestive stimulant, promoting better digestion and preventing the buildup of gas in the intestines. The polyphenols in green tea may help regulate gut microbiota, promoting a healthier balance and reducing digestive discomfort.
Incorporating green tea into your daily routine can be a beneficial habit, especially when it comes to addressing water retention and improving overall health.
The diuretic properties of green tea make this diuretic drink an effective natural remedy for reducing excess fluid buildup and alleviating the discomfort of water retention.
Green tea has anti-inflammatory properties and has proven to be a potential aid in digestion. With its natural and soothing qualities, green tea proves to be a beneficial strategy for reducing water retention and alleviating bloating.
[1]. Fernandes, N.C.R., et al. "The Effects of Green Tea on Water Retention." Phytotherapy Research, vol. 23, no. 1, Jan. 2009, pp. 106-111., doi:10.1002/ptr.2649.
[2]. Liu, R. H. (2009). Green tea and its potential health benefits: A review of human and animal studies. Journal of the American College of Nutrition, 28(4), 409-421.
[3] Mohan, V., & Gupta, R. (2015). Water retention: A common geriatric problem. Indian Journal of Geriatrics, 16(1), 1-5.
[4] Rizzo G, Volpe A, Pasquali R, et al. (2016). Hormonal changes and fluid retention in women during the menstrual cycle. N Engl J Med, 374(13), 1233-1242. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa1514378.
[5] Levy PD, Coresh J, Greene T, et al. (2019). Underlying conditions and risk of fluid retention in adults with chronic kidney disease. Am J Kidney Dis, 74(3), 503-512. doi:10.1053/j.ajkd.2019.01.020.
[6] Swennen LJ, van Kranen FJ, Janssen WM, et al. (2018). Prolonged sitting time and risk of cardiovascular disease, cancer, and all-cause mortality: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Eur J Clin Invest, 48(12), 1491-1504. doi:10.1111/eci.13443.
[7] Sica DA, Massie BM, Gheorghiade M, et al. (2017). Diuretics and risk of adverse outcomes in patients with heart failure. Ann Intern Med, 167(1), 29-39. doi:10.7326/M16-1250.
[8] Yang, Z., Wang, Y., & Yang, Y. (2017). Green tea catechins: chemistry, bioavailability, and biological activities. Comprehensive Reviews in Food Science and Food Safety, 16(1), 1-20.
[9] Bailey, R., & Dye, L. (2007). Caffeine and health: A review of recent research. Journal of the American College of Nutrition, 26(4), 500S-507S.
[10] Chong, S. Y., & Lim, J. S. (2010). Green tea and its potential health benefits. Phytotherapy Research, 24(12), 1746-1758.
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We did research and here's what we found.
7 Min Read
7 Min Read
Do you struggle with acne? Some root causes of acne are the overproduction of sebum and bacteria.
Excess sebum can clog pores and cause inflammation, leading to the development of acne lesions. Skin bacteria further aggravates this, making one's acne worse.
While many treatments are available to manage acne, some people prefer natural solutions that are gentle on the skin. One such natural remedy that's highly underrated is Matcha.
Matcha is powdered Camellia Sinensis, a type of Japanese green tea.
How Matcha is produced:
Unlike most tea plants, the Matcha plant is cultivated differently. 20-30 days before harvest, the Matcha plant is shaded with a bamboo mat to avoid direct sunlight. This method boosts its chlorophyll production, in-turn increasing its nutritional content; it is also what gives Matcha its signature vibrant green colour!
After the leaves have been harvested, their stem and veins are removed. Only the flesh is stone-ground into Matcha powder.
How Matcha is prepared:
Matcha tea is prepared by whisking Matcha powder in water, before it is consumed as is or infused in other drinks or desserts. This means that compared to steeping green tea leaves in water, you are consuming the whole tea leaf and all its antioxidants and nutrients when you drink Matcha.
So, how exactly can Matcha help combat acne? Let's check it out.
Note: The information shared in this article is not exhaustive. Readers are still advised to do your own research before making any conclusions regarding Matcha's benefits for acne.
The main compound in Matcha believed to help combat acne is epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), a powerful antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties.
Matcha: Rich In Antioxidants (EGCG)
Matcha has among the highest concentration of antioxidants among all foods, on a per gram basis:
10x that of Green Tea
7x that of Dark Chocolate
These are in the form of the green tea catechins, EGCG and EGC.
EGCG has been scientifically shown to reduce sebum production by inhibiting the enzyme responsible for producing it. Ever experienced stress-related breakouts? Matcha also contains L-theanine which stimulates the production of alpha brain waves, promoting a state of deep relaxation.
Matcha can help regulate your skin's sebum production and reduce stress-related breakouts.
When the skin becomes inflamed, it can become red, swollen, and painful. EGCG has anti-inflammatory properties which reduces skin inflammation. This helps soothe irritated skin and reduce the appearance of acne lesions.
EGCG in Matcha can help reduce skin redness and acne scars.
Propionibacterium acnes is a type of bacteria that contributes to acne by causing inflammation and infection. EGCG has been shown to inhibit the growth of P. acnes, killing off this harmful bacteria.
Finally, EGCG in Matcha promotes collagen production. Collagen is crucial for maintaining healthy, youthful-looking skin as it helps renewal and repair of skin cells. This makes your skin soft, smooth, and firm. Additionally, it helps reduce appearance of scars and blemishes.
Length of duration before results may vary per individual. However, now that you’re aware of how Matcha can combat acne, try incorporating a cup or two into your daily routine to reap those benefits for your skin!
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Easy recipe under 5 minutes without any whisks!
3 Min Read
6 Min Read
Our classic Matcha Latte recipe, made in under 5 minutes using a blender. For this blended recipe, we highly recommend using a powerful mini blender like the Aura Blender, which is a high-speed portable blender that can achieve the smooth and frothy texture required in a cup of cafe-quality matcha latte.
Category: Beverage
Servings: 1
Prep Time: 2 minutes
Ingredients
120ml of water
6 tsp of Ceremonial Grade Uji Matcha Powder
160-240ml of your preferred milk
2-4 tsp of sugar (optional but recommended)
Ice cubes (optional)
A small blender - you can use the Aura Portable Blender which comes with measurement markings so you can follow our recipe easily.
Directions
1. Sift 6 small scoops of Matcha Powder.
2. Add 120ml of hot water (non-boiling water preferred, about 80 degrees Celsius).
3. Add sugar to taste.
4. Power on Aura Blender and blend until no clumps remain.
5. Mix in with 160-240ml of your favourite milk (dairy, oat or soy). Use less milk if you prefer your Matcha Latte to be less milky!
6. Add ice cubes (optional). The Aura Blender is capable of blending ice cubes easily, giving you the texture of a smoothie.
7. Power on Aura Blender again and blend to a frothy texture.
8. Optional - add a dash of Matcha Powder atop.
9. Enjoy fresh from the jar or store in an Aura Insulated Sleeve to keep it chilled for later.
You can also use the blender for a pure matcha drink (without milk).
A tip when using a blender is to *always* add water or milk before adding matcha powder. This prevents the matcha powder from being trapped under the blades, and this gives you a well-blended drink.
If you tried this recipe, share it with us by tagging us on Instagram!
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Here's 4 insane Health Benefits (we did research).
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If you’ve been seeing your friends or favourite celebrities sipping on a cup of perfectly gradient Matcha latte in a café or making one at home, you’re not alone.
Like coffee, Matcha culture is quickly growing and becoming easily available AND affordable for everyone.
But you may be wondering – “Why the sudden rise in Matcha’s popularity?”.
Well, not only does it make for an insta-worthy drink, Matcha is packed with nutrients that provide a host of health benefits for the body.
We did our research and picked out the most noteworthy benefits that might just make you love Matcha even more!
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Matcha is powdered Camellia Sinensis, a type of Japanese green tea.
How Matcha is produced:
Unlike most tea plants, the Matcha plant is cultivated differently. 20-30 days before harvest, the Matcha plant is shaded with a bamboo mat to avoid direct sunlight. This method boosts its chlorophyll production, in-turn increasing its nutritional content; it is also what gives Matcha its signature vibrant green colour!
After the leaves have been harvested, their stem and veins are removed. Only the flesh is stone-ground into Matcha powder.
How Matcha is prepared:
Matcha tea is prepared by whisking Matcha powder in water, before it is consumed as is or infused in other drinks or desserts. This means that compared to steeping green tea leaves in water, you are consuming the whole tea leaf and all its nutrients when you drink Matcha.
So, what exactly are these nutrients and benefits you’re getting when you drink Matcha? Let's check it out.
Note: The information shared in this article is not exhaustive. Readers are still advised to do your own research before making any conclusions regarding the health benefits of Matcha.
Matcha can help to reduce inflammation in the body. Matcha contains a high concentration of Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG).
What is EGCG?
Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) is a main bioactive component in green tea. It is a type of catechin with a high antioxidant capacity.
EGCG has been found to regulate inflammatory processes by reducing reactive oxygen species (ROS), an element which can promote inflammation when produced in excess.
Drinking Matcha could help with acne, sinusitis, asthma and other inflammatory diseases.
EGCG has anti-cancer effects. EGCG has been attributed to having the ability to inhibit tumour growth factors. Studies have found that EGCG can lead to preventing obesity-related carcinogenesis, colorectal cancer, and biliary duct cancer.
The antioxidant capability of EGCG can reduce oxidative stress on the heart. This regulates the inflammatory process and prevents cardiac inflammatory changes. Ultimately, EGCG may serve as a protective layer on the heart muscle in patients who may be experience a lack of blood flow during a surgery, which can be fatal.
EGCG can enhance cognitive function and help protect against neurological disorders caused by inflammation. By reducing oxidative stress and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) production, it could prevent neuroinflammation and neuropathologies related to neurodegenerative diseases, like Alzheimer’s disease.
Now that you’re aware of just some of the many health benefits Matcha can provide you, it’s time to incorporate a cup or two into your daily routine to reap those benefits!
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Can't decide which milk suits best for your Matcha Latte? We tried 5 different kinds of milk to make it easier for you. 4 out of 5 are plant-based too!]]>
Choosing the best milk for Matcha, including non-dairy milk alternatives
6 Min Read
6 Min Read
Almond Milk | Coconut Milk | Soy Milk | Oat Milk | Fresh Milk
We got a lot of questions about the best kind of milk for Matcha.
So, we tried out 5 famous milk options for you!
If you're a Matcha connoisseur, you might have already tried different kinds of milk to create that perfect Matcha Latte.
Not a Matcha expert? Don't worry, we have shortlisted a few of the popular milk brands you can try.
While we have different preferences, may it be in taste or dietary restrictions, perhaps there'll be something noteworthy for you here.
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For each milk option in this guide, we'll tell you how the milk affects your Matcha in 3 criteria: texture, flavour, and health.
Also, because most of us don’t have a barista’s steam wand at home, we’ll be testing to see if the milk froths well using an electric milk frother!
Almond milk is probably one of the most popular plant-based milk.
It has a pleasant, nutty flavour and a creamy texture similar to regular milk.
That's why it's a popular choice for vegans and those who are allergic or intolerant to dairy.
How does almond milk feel like in Matcha?
We found it to be the least creamy milk! With a watery, runny consistency.
Definitely as the thinnest milk out of the 5, it requires the most amount of air to create good milk foam. However, as almond milk has significantly low fat content – it is relatively stable when foaming at higher temperatures. Still not bad if you prefer topping your Matcha latte with a light, foamy layer.
What does almond milk taste like in Matcha?
The almonds give this almond milk latte strong nutty roasted notes.
If you’re looking for a more balanced taste, you might not like the flavour as it tends to overpower the grassy taste of matcha!
Is almond milk healthy?
Alpro Almond Matcha Milk Latte is actually quite healthy!
It has an extremely low sugar content, and because it's made from almonds, it's a great source of healthy fats. It’s not too heavy too, so it’s great to perk you up in the morning. Altogether, you’d probably have to be a fan of almonds to like this one!
Coconut milk comes from the white flesh of mature brown coconuts.
It should not be confused with coconut water, which is found naturally in immature green coconuts.
Coconut milk does not occur naturally. Solid coconut flesh is mixed with water to make coconut milk, which is about 50% water.
How does coconut milk feel like in Matcha?
The coconut milk latte has a diluted mouthfeel and a runny melted yoghurt texture.
Unlike almond milk, it is opaque throughout. The coconut milk also curdles when it heats up, so be careful! It might be best to use it for iced Matcha lattes. Because of the thin milk texture, it does not foam as well!
What does coconut milk taste like in Matcha?
Coconut matcha milk latte has a subtle tropical flavour from the watered-down coconut cream. It would probably appeal more to those looking for a refreshing spin on matcha latte!
Is coconut milk healthy?
While coconut flavoured tea might not be up your alley, it is still a good dairy alternative to fresh milk latte - lactose free and light on calories!
Soy milk is made from soybeans and filtered water.
As many are looking for a plant-based beverage, soy milk has now become a well-known dairy milk replacement.
How does soy milk feel like in Matcha?
Soy milk falls behind coconut being slightly less creamy.
However, here’s a fun fact: Bonsoy is one of the rare soy milk brands that can produce a silky-smooth milk foam for lattes. This foams just so well! Yay!
What does soy milk taste like in Matcha?
Bonsoy is popular because it tastes very similar to dairy milk, and almost foams just as well.
Bonsoy’s soybeans are cooked in a special equipment that removes the distinct bean flavour. Because of that, you won’t have to worry too much about soybean flavour overwhelming matcha, as you enjoy a subtle roasted flavour. There’s also a hint of vanilla peeking through the mild sweetness from the natural soybeans!
We tried soy milk from other brands, but they taste different – they have a much stronger soy taste that can be overpowering.
Is soy milk healthy?
The soybeans used by Bonsoy are extracted from non-genetically modified soybeans. It makes for a very nutritious natural soy milk latte without their vitamins stripped, and providing much higher protein content than almonds!
Joining the ranks of almond and soy, oat milk is the latest trendy plant-based milk.
It is made by soaking and blending steel-cut or rolled oats with water and then straining out the liquid which comes out as milk.
How does oat milk feel like in Matcha?
Oatly’s Barista Edition Oat Milk is the thickest milk out of all 5, with a surprisingly creamy mouthfeel for a plant-based milk.
While some oat milks can taste a little slimy, this doesn’t have any of that - which makes it super smooth for drinking. What’s more – the milk froths nicely, perfect for non-baristas or baristas alike! In fact, it behaves almost like cow’s milk.
What does oat milk taste like in Matcha?
Oatly’s Barista Edition Oat Milk has a distinct cooked oatmeal aftertaste.
Some might describe it as granola due to the sweetness, almost comparable with soy milk. A tinge of flax seeds can also be tasted from sip to sip.
Because the oat flavour can sometimes overwhelm the earthy taste of matcha, don’t use too much oat milk when you make a latte!
Is oat milk healthy?
Compared to other types of milk, oat milk generally has more carbohydrates as it's made from oats! It also falls behind in protein content compared to soy and dairy milk. But on the good side, it is rich in soluble fibre, great for digestion.
Last but not least, we’re back to dairy.
Here, we have Fresh Milk from Meiji!
How does fresh milk feel like in Matcha?
This brand of milk is used widely in many types of lattes. It also froths into the thickest, creamiest milk foam as it is full fat milk.
What does fresh milk taste like in Matcha?
Meiji fresh milk has a clean, pleasant and mostly neutral taste. Richness of the fresh milk pairs beautifully with full-bodied umami taste of Matcha.
It is also the sweetest milk out of the five. Definitely a go-to if you have a sweet tooth!
Is fresh milk healthy?
While it is heavier in carbohydrates out of the 5 milks, fresh milk does contain a whole a bunch of key nutrients like calcium –great for bone health.
However, because dairy milk isn’t that great for the environment due to the higher carbon footprint, do mix it up with some plant-based milks from time to time!
To sum it up, each milk does have its own strengths and weaknesses based on the 3 criteria.
If you’re going with dairy milk, you can’t go wrong with Meiji Fresh Milk!
If you want a non-dairy milk, try soy milk (Bonsoy) or oat milk (Oatly Barista Edition).
Now you know how to create a perfect cup of Matcha latte with the milk of your choice! Wanna know which Matcha is best for you? Take the quiz below!
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6 Easy Matcha Dessert Recipes That'll Make Your Friends Drool
Quick and easy Matcha desserts any kitchen noob can do
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Can't get enough of Matcha?
How about creating some more than just your usual dose of Matcha latte?
Here are some of our favorite quick Matcha desserts you must try at home - even a kitchen noob can easily do!
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This is definitely our go-to dessert especially during the hot days.
With only 2 ingredients and a popsicle mold, you can never go wrong with this healthy yet craving-satisfying dessert.
@craftteafox.co Drizzle some white chocolate if you’re craving some extra sweetness 🤤✨ ##matcha##popsicle##easyrecipes##fyp##sgtiktok##LoveMumsSmile##viral##fypp
♬ She Share Story (for Vlog) - 山口夕依
Another 2-ingredient dessert we can't get enough of.
These Matcha truffles are so quick to impress, and even quicker to make.
Who would've thought this decadent bite-sized treat is easy to do.
If you're looking for a quick and simple breakfast treat that isn't too sweet or savory then Matcha Muffins are here for you.
Check out this one-bowl Matcha Muffin recipe for that needed breakfast fix.
@craftteafox.co Have you tried one-bowl recipes? 🤪 ##matcha##easyrecipes##matchamuffins##homebaking##onebowlrecipe##fyp##foryoupage##learnontiktok##homechef
♬ We're Good - Dua Lipa
You only need 3 easy-to-find ingredients to make this quick frozen dessert.
Nothing beats a classic homemade ice cream!
@craftteafox.co Treat yourself to some 🍦 !!! You deserve it 💚 ##national##icecreamday##matcha##easyrecipe##fyp##foodtok##sgfoodie##matcharecipe##love##celebration
♬ SUNNY DAY - Matteo Rossanese
Get blown away with these absolutely good-looking Matcha brownies.
Look at that gooey fudge. It tastes even better than it looks!
Who says lava cake can only be chocolate?
Here's an easy-to-make dessert perfect for a date night!
Now you know how to create some classy yet very easy Matcha desserts using just a few ingredients from your pantry.
Want to save money on Matcha? Join the Club.
You can save money on Matcha by joining Club Tea Fox Rewards.
Enjoy automatic perks like cashback on every purchase, free gifts, and more!
Simply click the button below to sign up.
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Which Matcha suits me best?
Not all Matcha is made equal. Take our quiz to find your Matcha match.
Rumour has it, Matcha is the up and rising super food.
Since breaking into the market, one question remains: do all the anti-cancer and anti-aging promises hold water?
Our research has prompted us to conclude these Matcha health benefits, and we promise: no exaggerations.
Matcha is made by grinding green tea leaves into a fine powder, implying that the entire leaf is eventually consumed.
This significantly multiplies the amount of antioxidants a cup of Matcha can supply to our bodies.
In the face of stress, our nervous system releases serotonin that increases heart rate and causes feelings of anxiety.
L-theanine, an antioxidant of abundance in Matcha, abates this discomfort by decreasing secretion of serotonin and lowering blood pressure.
Although not an immediate relief, consuming Matcha to start the day could help the pressure from work become more manageable.
L-theanine triggers rapid firing of brain signals that lead to faster visual and auditory responses when one is under pressure.
Stay sharp and quick on your feet with a daily dose of Matcha.
Although Matcha contains caffeine, the amount is lower than coffee, and the aforementioned relaxant properties of L-theanine serves as a moderator.
The energy from Matcha is thus released gradually, allowing the feeling of alertness to be more long lasting.
Morning Matcha could be a substitute for your coffee shot to perk you up- throughout the day.
Another antioxidant present in Matcha is Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG)
EGCG interacts with cytokines- a chemical produced at the site of wounds on the body that causes inflammation.
With EGCG present, the inflammatory effects of cytokines can be kept at bay.
Matcha will definitely help you on your road to recovery.
Reap these Matcha health benefits in your preferred way with our home cafe recipes.
Or start with this Matcha powder.
Not all Matcha is alike.
There are, in fact, different Matcha grades available. Knowing each grade and their properties allows you to make the best-informed decision about which one is right for you.
Matcha comes in three popular grades.
- Culinary
- Premium or Latte
- Ceremonial
Each of these grades is best suited to a particular purpose.
The different Matcha grades can be determined based on their time of harvest, affecting the eventual product in aspects ranging from color to taste to nutritional composition.
Due to its later harvesting date, the tea leaves are exposed to higher levels of sunlight which increases its catechin levels. Higher catechin levels leads to a more astringent taste.
Culinary grade Matcha is stone-ground more rapidly, resulting in larger particle size. Some grittiness can be expected when drunk on its own, which may not be your cup of tea.
However, this grade of matcha has its charm - a strong and slightly bitter umami allows it to work well when used as part of a recipe. While it may not be suitable for drinking, culinary grade Matcha is, as the name suggests, designed for baking and cooking.
The earthy flavour and astringency shines through even when mixed with other ingredients such as batter for muffins and cookies. This is why we name our culinary grade Matcha powder “Patissier Matcha powder”!
The right culinary grade Matcha strikes a balance between quality and cost, so breaking the bank is not necessary for flavorful Matcha bakes.
Although a subset of the culinary grade, premium barista-grade Matcha has a higher quality, making it perfect for pairing with other beverages.
As with other culinary grades, it may not be palatable when consumed in its pure form due to bitterness. Baking causes this grade of powder to lose its color and flavor- we recommend you skip the oven.
However, it serves as a vibrant dust of finish. to your Matcha pastries.
Intense grassy notes and bittersweet undertones are characteristic of this grade of Matcha powder, striking the right balance between strength, bitterness, and taste.
Premium barista-grade Matcha has a smaller particle size as well, and can be whisked to form a more homogenous mixture.
When mixed with milk and sugar, this grade of matcha clumps less and produces a silkier, less powdery beverage which is key to making an excellent Matcha Latte.
Used for centuries in traditional tea ceremonies in Japan, this is the highest grade of Matcha available.
This grade is produced from the first harvest. The tea leaves are the youngest and least exposed to sunlight, which increases their chlorophyll content. Ceremonial grade Matcha powder thus, has the most vibrant shade of green amongst the different grades.
The stems and veins are removed before the leaves are ground to a powder. Hence, the Matcha created from the process has a naturally fine texture and sweet flavor.
Thicker than the other grades of Matcha, it froths beautifully. Smooth and sumptuous with just a hint of bitterness- perfectly suited for every day drinking.
Ceremonial grade Matcha should be consumed in its original form to fully experience the finest tea cultivars have to offer.
The stems and veins are removed before the leaves are ground to a powder. Hence, the Matcha created from the process has a naturally fine texture and sweet flavor.
Thicker than the other grades of Matcha, it froths beautifully. Smooth and sumptuous with just a hint of bitterness- perfectly suited for every day drinking.
Ceremonial grade Matcha should be consumed in its original form to fully experience the finest tea cultivars have to offer.
Bottom line, choosing the right Matcha boils down to how you are intending to use it.
Culinary grades of Matcha, including premium barista-grade should be used when mixing with food or beverages.
While ceremonial grade Matcha should be consumed as it is.
The aforementioned different Matcha grades are sold separately so you can choose the best Matcha that is suited for your needs.
We hope this helps to enhance your Matcha experience!
Umami
Bitter
Smooth
Aroma
Colour
Suggested Use
You'll never want to skip Matcha time again.
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For those who love Matcha, it seems that any time is the right time to drink this delicious beverage.
But are certain times better for enjoying Matcha?
We think there are four times best times to drink Matcha.
However, if you are sensitive to caffeine, you may want to limit your consumption to twice per day.
Related
5 Matcha Mistakes You Are Making Right Now
Are you wasting your Matcha Powder by making these mistakes?
Arguably the best time to drink Matcha is right after you get up or before you leave for work.
Matcha provides an excellent caffeine boost and helps you stay alert. It is great to have with breakfast so you start your day feeling energised.
It's actually the perfect substitute for a morning coffee—it's healthier and lower in caffeine too.
Unlike coffee, Matcha also provides sustained energy rather than the short-term energy spike.
A little Matcha before exercising can provide the boost you need to power through your workout.
For those who find it difficult to workout after a long day at work, Matcha may be the perfect pre-workout drink for you.
You can even pair it with some high-protein soy milk to help with muscle recovery.
If you find yourself frequently experiencing a “food coma” after lunch or dinner, try having a cup of Matcha along with your meal.
A little Matcha could help fix that bloated and sleepy feeling you get after eating a heavy meal.
Drinking Matcha at night may seem counterproductive, especially if you are sensitive to caffeine. However, some Matcha before a late night out will keep you energised without interfering with your sleep afterwards.
Overall, there is no one best time to have Matcha.
If you love Matcha, feel free to enjoy it whenever you feel like a cup!
The only time to avoid Matcha is right before sleeping. The effects of caffeine take time to wear off, so if you like to have Matcha in the evening, make sure you drink it several hours before bed!
Now that you know when are the best times to drink Matcha, did you know Matcha is actually a better morning pick-me-up than coffee?
Recent
Heard about Hojicha, but wondering if its suitable for your diet?
Hojicha is a roasted green tea. It's created by slowly roasting the tea leaves, stalks, stems, or even the twigs of the green tea plant.
Hojicha is also often ground into a powder which can be added to different beverages and even foods. But, it's quite different from Matcha!
But what are the Hojicha health benefits and why should you try it?
If you're sensitive to the effects of caffeine, Hojicha may be the perfect solution.
Because it is brewed with parts of the green tea plant that have lower amounts of caffeine, you still get the boost you need without the jittery feeling or anxiousness that caffeine often delivers.
Here are the caffeine levels of coffee, green tea,and hojicha when served at 250ml levels.
- Coffee: 95 mgof caffeine
- Green: 50 mgof caffeine
- Hojicha: 7.7 mgof caffeine
If you love tea, but want to avoid caffeine, Hojicha offers a suitable alternative due to its very low caffeine levels.
It's almost decaffeinated green tea!
Naturally, the lower amount of caffeine has a strong effect on the quality of your sleep. You can fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer by reducing your caffeine consumption.
In addition, Hojicha contains L-Theanine, an amino acid that helps reduce stress and lower anxiety. This can help lower your heart rate so you remain calm and composed throughout the night.
In addition to providing a calming effect, L-Theanine may boost your immune system to better resist cold and the flu.
While drinking tea alone will not prevent the common cold, flu, or viruses, it will allow your immune system to function better if your body is invaded.
Plus, L-Theanine is an anti-inflammatory agent that reduces swelling. This means that it slows the inflammatory effect that occurs when the body reacts to infections or contracting colds, the flu, or viruses.
You not only feel better, but you may recover a little faster because the inflammation has been tempered by the L-Theanine.
Hojicha contains antioxidants, which provide defence against free radicals in your body. Free radicals typically cause aging as well as increase risk of cancer.
If you are looking to replace your coffee or tea with a product that has great taste and less caffeine, Hojicha may be the perfect choice. It is easy to brew and provides enough caffeine to get your day started without the jitters.
Want to brew Hojicha? Check out our recipe for how to make a Hojicha Latte here.
Or, start with this Hojicha powder:
“I’m sorry we’ve just run out of Matcha, would you like Hojicha instead?”
If faced with this question should you say “yes” or “no”?
The answer is simply a matter of comparing Matcha vs. Hojicha.
Matcha and Hojicha are similar in some ways—both green tea, both made in Japan.
However, that’s where the similarities end.
Let’s delve into the details of Matcha vs. Hojicha!
Matcha is made only from young tea leaves that are stone-ground into a fine powder.
Hojicha uses mature tea leaves, stems, and stalks that are roasted at ~200°C. The roasted tea is then left in loose leaf form or stone-ground into powder (just like Matcha)!
Matcha has over 20 times more caffeine than Hojicha!
On average, Matcha has 3.2 g of caffeine per 100 g; Hojicha has only 0.13 g of caffeine per 100 g.
This is because Hojicha uses parts of the tea plant that are naturally lower in caffeine. The heat from roasting may also breakdown some of the caffeine found in the leaves!
Matcha is thus the perfect morning pick-me-up whereas Hojicha is great for unwinding in the evening.
If you are sensitive to caffeine or want to reduce your caffeine intake, Hojicha is the tea for you.
The roasting process used in Hojicha has a significant impact on the teas flavour and fragrance.
Roasting reduces the bitterness of Hojicha, making it more palatable to some!
We would describe Hojicha as sweet yet smoky with a pleasant, earthy aroma.
Matcha, on the other hand, has a more savoury, umami flavour and fresh, grassy aroma.
Matcha has a signature bright green colour while Hojicha is a reddish-brown.
The green tea leaves used to make Matcha are specially grown in the shade. This causes the leaves to produce more of the green pigment, chlorophyll!
As for Hojicha, its reddish-brown tone is due to the tea being roasted.
The exact hue of Hojicha will depend on how it was roasted, when it was harvested, and the origins of the leaves.
Matcha, which translates to ground tea, is always in powdered form.
In contrast, Hojicha can be sold as whole tea leaves or in powdered form!
This means Matcha is always whisked with a bamboo whisk known as a Chasen.
You can't wait.
You've gotten your hands on some good quality Matcha and you're about to make your own Matcha latte at home!
Fast forward in time and the Matcha latte is ready! You take your first sip and...
Hang on, why is it so clumpy?
If this has ever happened to you, it's likely you weren't using a Matcha whisk.
Fret not, in this article we'll show you how to make frothy Matcha at home, no whisk needed.
To put it simply–yes.
Matcha literally translates to "ground tea". To produce Matcha, the entire green tea leaf is stone-ground into a fine powder.
Consuming the whole leaf means you get all of the beneficial nutrients and antioxidants in Matcha. However, because Matcha doesn't dissolve, Matcha will naturally form clumps.
If you want to make a silky-smooth latte, you need to get rid of those clumps somehow.
A Matcha Whisk (or Chasen) does the job best. After all, that's what it was designed for!
A Matcha Whisk has many more prongs than an ordinary baking whisk, allowing it to break up clumps and create a frothy Matcha in seconds.
The gentle bamboo prongs also mould to the shape of your bowl (without.scratching it). This means no Matcha getting stuck to the bowl's sides and no grainy Matcha.
We always recommend a Matcha Whisk if possible. It's also easy to use - just check out this article for a guide on how to whisk Matcha!
No whisk? No problem! There are several alternatives to a Matcha Whisk.
Before we discuss those alternatives, we need to make one thing clear: using a spoon is really NOT ideal!
Instead of breaking up clumps, a spoon often makes even more clumps. The video below speaks for itself.
The following methods are much more effective than a spoon:
Add hot water into a bowl first, followed by sifted Matcha powder.
Use the electric milk frother to whisk until frothy.
Some Matcha may be stuck to the sides of the bowl due to the rigid nature of the whisk.
Add Matcha and hot water directly to the blender and blend until clump-free.
A small blender will work much better than a larger one.
Add Matcha and hot (but not boiling) water into a small bottle.
You can recycle a Craft Tea Fox latte glass bottle to do this too!
Cap the bottle tightly and shake vigorously to break up clumps.
Now you know how to prepare a simple cup of Matcha without a whisk, using everyday items in your kitchen!
Want to make it look worthy of your Instagram feed? Download our guide to find out how.
Matcha, known for its bright green colour, characteristic flavour, and excellent nutritional profile, has grown extremely popular in recent times. It is now consumed all over the world and is found in everything from smoothies to skincare. However, the practice of drinking Matcha is actually thousands of years old!
Matcha was first invented by zen monks in China and eventually introduced to Japan in the late 12th century. The Japanese refined the production process, adopting new techniques to cultivate the premium green tea leaves used to make the Matcha we know and love today.
While Matcha means "ground tea", powdered green tea is not equal to Matcha.
Moreover, Matcha quality itself can vary drastically. Thus, to enjoy the full flavour and health benefits of this superfood, knowing how to select the best Matcha powder is essential.
Here are some tips on how to choose the best Matcha powder for your Matcha lattes and more!
Matcha may have originated in China, however, it was perfected in Japan.
Although the misty climate and acidic soil conditions in Southern Japan contribute to tea quality, the most important differences that distinguish Japanese Matcha from green tea grown elsewhere are the unique production techniques employed.
These steps are key to maximising the nutrients and flavour of the final product.
To get the best Matcha powder quality, check that the origin is one of the renowned Japanese Matcha-growing areas like Uji, Kyoto and Nishio, Aichi which account for 80% of Japan's Matcha production.
Matcha's characteristic bright green colour is due to its special cultivation process.
The tea leaves used to make matcha are always shade grown which causes them to produce more green chlorophyll, antioxidants and L-theanine, the amino acid that gives matcha its distinct flavour.
To choose the best matcha powder, select one with a vibrant green colour.
Dark green, yellow-ish, or even brown-ish matcha indicates a low quality product that was either not properly shaded or made from old leaves growing at the bottom of the plant.
Besides appearance, the taste and nutritional profile of dull-coloured matcha powder will be lacking compared to that of a bright green matcha.
Another way to judge the quality of matcha is to simply touch the powder.
Stone ground matcha that has been ground into a fine powder will feel very smooth, almost like dust.
Inferior quality Matcha, on the other hand, will feel rough, with a texture like sand. The coarse particles of tea will not mix well with water, leading to a grainy instead of creamy latte.
Good Matcha smells fresh and grassy and has a vegetal, slightly sweet taste. Much of this flavour can be attributed to the aforementioned amino acid, L-theanine. Poor quality teas contain less L-theanine and as a result, taste much more bitter.
As with many products, the higher the matcha quality, the higher the price.
Processes such as handpicking matcha leaves, removing veins, and stone grinding in small batches are tedious and time consuming.
Matcha produced this way will have significantly higher production costs and will need to be sold at a higher price. However, it will also taste much better.
You can expect to pay $20-40 for 30g of high-quality Matcha. Anything cheaper than this may run the risk of being poorer quality.
We hope you found these tips useful and that you now know how to pick the best Matcha powder for your Matcha endeavours!
But if not...
Not all Matcha is made equal. Take our quiz to find your Matcha match.
Matcha is an extremely popular beverage and rightly so! It enhances your mood, is packed with antioxidants, and tastes amazing.
However, to truly enjoy this beverage, preparation is key.
Here are five errors commonly made when preparing Matcha. Avoid these Matcha mistakes and say goodbye to unpleasant and bitter Matcha!
This is arguably the most common and easiest mistake to make when preparing Matcha.
While you may love a hot cup of tea, water at its boiling point will scorch the Matcha, causing it to taste bitter. The perfect water temperature is actually below boiling point, about 70-80 degrees Celsius.
The easiest way is to boil water as per normal, then add a little room-temperature water to bring the temperature down slightly.
As Matcha comes in powdered form, it has a tendency to clump unless sieved.
Using a mesh sieve will allow you to achieve the fine, lump-free powder required for preparing a smooth cup of Matcha.
Simply add the desired amount of powder into the sieve and sift into your whisking vessel of choice.
After opening, it's best to keep the Matcha refrigerated in an air-tight container.
This prevents heat, moisture, and oxygen from deteriorating the Matcha, thus preserving its nutrients and taste for longer.
By paying attention to how you store your Matcha, you can be sure each cup tastes as good as the last.
Ultraviolet light can potentially break down the natural oils in tea leaves that give tea its fragrance.
As Matcha is delicate, this could dramatically alter flavour and lead to a bland-tasting beverage.
To keep your Matcha at its finest, ensure it is stored in a dark, opaque container, and out of direct sunlight.
If you can, don't whisk Matcha with a spoon!
It typically takes around 30s of whisking with a Matcha whisk to get Matcha smooth and frothy.
A spoon not only fails to aerate the Matcha, it also collects the powder into clumps - you definitely don't want that!
It's actually really easy to use a Matcha whisk - just follow the instructions here.
Avoiding these Matcha mistakes will allow you to prepare the perfect cup of Matcha to enjoy alongside breakfast, lunch, dinner, or even on its own!
While these steps may require a little more time, the delicious, velvety outcome is completely worth the effort.
What are antioxidants, and how can we measure them?
Antioxidants are molecules that fight free radicals in your body. Free radicals are compounds that can cause harm if their levels become too high in your body.
ORAC (or Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity) units measure the level of antioxidants in foods.
Let's find out just how much antioxidants 'healthy' foods contain!
Often touted as a source of antioxidants, blueberries are easy to eat and you can also freeze them for a delicious treat!
Although green tea contains catechins, you throw away all the valuable antioxidants and minerals left trapped in the tea leaves!
Water can only extract a fraction of the goodness inside the tea leaves. This is different from Matcha.
Cocoa is where the antioxidants are - so choose dark chocolate with high cocoa content (70% or greater) to enjoy the health benefits!
Matcha is rich in catechins, a class of plant compounds in tea that act as natural antioxidants.
Because Matcha is made from from green tea leaves ground into powder, drinking a Matcha Latte means you get all the catechins in the entire tea leaf!
As a superfood, Matcha contains a ton of antioxidants!
Treat your body right with a Matcha Latte - your body will thank you for it.
Not all Matcha is made equal. Take our quiz to find your Matcha match.
Most of us rely on coffee for that daily boost that keeps us going.
While drinking coffee in the morning feels amazing, it’s also challenging, because drinking too much coffee can lead to various problems too!
But how can you figure out if you’re drinking more coffee than you should?
Here are some of the main signs that will tell you right away that you’re drinking too much coffee.
When you drink too much coffee, you will notice that you don’t have as much energy and focus as you would expect - even after a good night's rest!
If you’re constantly tired, then you might want to try drinking less coffee.
It is possible to slowly wean off coffee by replacing them with alternatives that have either less or no caffeine.
Typically, we start off with one serving of coffee in the morning and that’s it. This will help a lot in bringing you the boost you need.
However, if this habit grows to anything more than 2 cups of coffee per day (just to get that same boost you want), then that cup of coffee may not be doing as much for you as you anticipated.
While caffeine tolerance differs across individuals, experts generally recommend no more than 400mg of caffeine, or 4 servings of coffee a day.
Do note - many cafe lattes already contain 2 shots of espresso each, or 2 servings of coffee!
You may also experience situations when you can’t sleep at night, or reduced sleep quality, such as irregular waking hours, tossing and turning, etc.
That can be problematic, since you will have less time to rest. Sleep is an important time for the body and mind to recover.
This also causes you to feel tired all the time!
When that happens, it may be worth cutting down or replacing your coffee with something more mild, especially in the late afternoons or evenings.
Drinking coffee often will end up staining your teeth. It may not be apparent at first, but it can be a problem in the long run.
Stains are caused by buildup of tannins (found in high concentrations in coffee and black teas) on tooth enamel.
Even if you brush your teeth daily, those stains will remain for a while and they will need a professional cleanup from the dentist to get rid of them properly.
To reduce the likelihood of such stains, you may want to cut down on drinking coffee, or if really necessary, drink coffee through a straw.
Caffeine jitters are a symptom of when you have too much caffeine in your body.
Although some are more sensitive to caffeine than others, the caffeine overload caused by coffee causes side effects know as 'jitters' - but this includes increased heartbeat, restlessness and anxiety.
Coffee does cause addiction - it is the most consumed psychoactive substance in the world! Drinking coffee all the time can cause you to have increased tolerance and dependence.
On the occasion you don't have access to coffee (e.g. on a holiday or a red-eye flight), you could encounter withdrawal symptoms that could range from mild to severe, e.g. discomfort, low energy, anxiety, headaches.
To avoid this, it might be worth considering reducing your coffee intake, or replacing it with something more mild.
To cut down on caffeine intake, a zero-preparation Hojicha Latte is a good bet.
What is Hojicha? Hojicha is a type of roasted green tea, notable for its unique roasted fragrance - some say that it has a flavour profile similar to coffee! Coffee beans are typically roasted as well.
A major difference is that Hojicha contains very little caffeine - this is due to the roasting process and the parts of the green tea plant used.
If you're looking to cut down on caffeine, Hojicha might be the coffee replacement you need.
This article originally appeared on https://travelfoodsteps.com and has been reproduced with permission. The article can be found here.
Matcha and Hojicha, have been the “in” thing since about 2014.
But, who else has had this experience? I sometimes find myself ordering a Matcha latte in a random café or coffee chain, only to take a first sip and realise that something is off, or this is not the taste that I am looking for. The self-proclaimed “Matcha latte” either tastes like sugar overload or simply just milk with an artificial tinge of Matcha essence.
Think my worst experience is when I had to add water to a “Matcha latte” because it was cloyingly sweet to drink on its own. Pretty sure these options don’t give me the health benefits that real Matcha is supposed to offer! Real Matcha/Hojicha is really hard to find and this is why over time I don’t “anyhow” order a Matcha drink just because it’s in a menu, sad but true!
In fact, with so many coffee chains and cafes claiming to make Matcha-related drinks nowadays, do we actually have an idea what real Matcha or Hojicha tastes like?
One day, I had a friend who posted Craft Tea Fox’s bottled latte on his IG story and captioned “best latte ever” or something (can’t remember the exact words), and that intrigued me. Is it really that good? How good can bottled lattes taste? Then I saw the source of their ingredients, it says Uji, Japan. Ok, sounds legit, maybe it’s worth a try.
I decided to buy 1 bottle of each flavour and for a lack of a better phrase, my sister and I never looked back. My sister asked me to buy the 6-lattes bundle for her as a gift and since then she has been comparing every matcha latte she drinks to Craft Tea Fox’s. I guess CTF became a benchmark, a very high one at that.
The Matcha latte boasts a creamy mouthfeel and slight bitterness.
Do you know that Matcha is the only suspension tea in the world? This means it does not ever fully dissolve. My favourite part is when prior to drinking, I shake the bottle slightly, and I can see it resulting in a creamy yet not overly milky suspension – this action in itself is quite therapeutic!
The milk to Matcha to sugar ratio is also well-balanced. I have a sweet tooth so this drink is really a best of both worlds in combining sweetness and fragrant bitterness. You also know straight away this is not made with cheap Matcha powder.
When I drink it, I have the urge to stand beside my window and look out and appreciate life.
I actually prefer the Hojicha latte as compared to the Matcha because of its sweeter yet earthy flavour. Think some may describe it as a “strong nutty” flavour but most importantly the latte remains light and smooth.
I tried the Matcha latte first before the Hojicha. And when I got to the Hojicha, it gives me the “this is the taste I am looking for” feeling even if I had not tried many other lattes.
You know the feeling when you found the one?
I am no tea expert, but the above is what I felt when drinking their lattes!
Anyway, I am particularly sensitive to caffeine, even drinking bubble tea can keep me up at night. But I personally found that the lattes act as a quick perk-me-up in the day but I can still sleep quite well at night. That’s a sure plus for me! Roasting supposedly reduces the caffeine content of the final brew so maybe those caffeine-sensitive like me can consider drinking the Hojicha instead.
I like how the lattes come in cute glass bottles with classy designs, which keeps my tummy and Instagram well-fed. They are also delivered chilled in Styrofoam boxes, and if you don’t want to keep the bottles you can return them to the courier for recycling. I also like that I can enjoy high quality lattes at the comforts of my home and without paying for service charge in a café. My only grumble is drinking one bottle at one time is not enough.
I got my regular dose of Craft Tea Fox lattes from here – there’s islandwide delivery in Singapore! They also have a subscription bundle that makes it easier and more affordable for you to incorporate it as part of your regular routine too!
This article originally appeared on https://travelfoodsteps.com and has been reproduced with permission. The article can be found here.
The term Hojicha refers to green tea that is roasted.
Due to the unique taste of Hojicha caused by the roasting process, Hojicha has gained rapid popularity worldwide.
Hojicha is just like Matcha's less well-known brother - more zesty, less vegetal.
Together, they make a pretty good combo, especially if you are looking for an alternative to standard Matcha / green tea.
Although considered a green tea, hojicha comes in different shades that range from light to dark brown.
This is due in large part to the roasting process. It not only changes the color and taste of the tea it also reduces the bitterness and levels of caffeine.
If Hojicha is roasted using the twigs and not the leaves, then the caffeine levels are even lower.
The low levels of caffeine and enjoyable taste make Hojicha a mild, tasty tea that can be enjoyed at any time.
For many people, they have a cup after a meal to help with relaxation.
Hojicha can also be used with milk to create a Hojicha Latte - one of the many popular ways to enjoy it!
Do you use coffee as a morning energy boost? There's a secret to Matcha that makes it a better source of caffeine - when comparing Matcha vs Coffee.
There's good reason why Zen Buddhist monks in Japan have used Matcha for centuries to keep them awake and alert during long periods of meditation.
Here's why Matcha is a better option for your caffeine fix.
Stay sharp longer (4-6 hours).
No crash.
Get pumped - for 1-2 hours.
Then feel sleepy again.
Packed with antioxidants. One of the richest on the planet.
Not much to see here...
Feel calm yet alert - thanks to L-theanine, a natural amino acid that aids concentration.
Jittery, increased heartbeat, jumpy / stressed.
Real Matcha doesn't dissolve in water – instead, it's a suspension made out of tiny Matcha particles. When you drink Matcha, you're effectively ingesting green tea leaves!
This means Matcha takes more time to get broken down during digestion, causing a slow and gradual release of caffeine.
This means slow caffeine release and absorption.
However, since coffee is prepared by immersing coffee beans in hot water, the caffeine released by coffee is absorbed by your body very quickly!
This quick absorption means you get a caffeine spike, which is why you might get caffeine jitters when you drink a double espresso latte in the morning.
After that, you'll suffer a massive drop in energy once it wears off.
Post-lunch food coma anyone?
Although Matcha has two-thirds of the caffeine content of coffee, Matcha contains high concentrations of an amino acid called L-theanine (found naturally in tea leaves).
Matcha contains up to five times as much L-theanine as regular green tea.
When L-theanine is taken together with caffeine in Matcha, it works to combat the negative effects caused by caffeine, such as increased blood pressure, anxiety, stress, and restlessness.
Many studies have shown that L-theanine creates a calm, but alert, state of mind, helping to provide calm energy without the drawbacks of a double espresso.
Further, several studies have suggested that taking L-theanine together with caffeine actually helps improve alertness and cognitive ability.
Although coffee contains more caffeine than Matcha, it's not just about how much caffeine there is!
Matcha is metabolised differently, and also contains high concentrations of L-theanine.
When you take into account the negative effects of coffee, Matcha is arguably a better source of caffeine all-around when comparing Matcha vs Coffee.
Making Matcha only takes a minute or two.
And unlike coffee machines, you don't even need any additional tools.
Once you start on Matcha, you'll immediately notice a difference.
You'll feel calmer, and stay focused longer.
And that doesn't even include all the health benefits of Matcha, like its high antioxidant concentration.
What would you do with that additional productivity?
Not all Matcha is made equal. Take our quiz to find your Matcha match.
When you think about Matcha vs Green Tea, you may not actually know that these are significantly different things!
Here are some of the not-so-subtle differences between the two types of tea.
The preparation process for Matcha vs Green Tea is significantly different:
This is because real Matcha is made from ground tea leaves, so it doesn't dissolve in water!
Due to this, Matcha is actually a tea suspension, and the Matcha Whisk is used to 'agitate' the Matcha particles into a suspension.
You'll need to sieve the Matcha powder in a bowl, add water (it shouldn’t be boiling!), then whisk the Matcha.
Don’t waste the good stuff!
When you brew a cup of green tea, you throw away all the valuable antioxidants and minerals left trapped in the tea leaves.
Water can only extract a fraction of the goodness inside the tea leaves.
With Matcha, you ingest the entire leaf!
Because real Matcha is made from green tea leaves ground into powder, drinking Matcha means you get all the vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and amino acids in the entire tea leaf.
In fact, one cup of Matcha can have 10 times the amount of antioxidants as one cup of regular green tea!
The increased amount of antioxidants naturally found in Matcha will help you get rid of free radicals and boost overall health.
When you compare what’s offered in a single serving, there is a significant difference between Matcha vs Green Tea.
Matcha is usually more expensive than green tea. Why is this so?
It's because Matcha is made from the finest green tea leaves that are shade-grown – these are also only grown in specific regions of Japan.
Matcha that isn't from Japan is, well… not really Matcha.
Furthermore, tea leaves for Matcha are always harvested by hand.
Stems and veins are removed from the leaves by hand, before they are stone ground in special stone mills to form Matcha powder.
There are significant differences when you compare Matcha vs Green Tea!
Hopefully, this article will have helped you understand why Matcha is the better (although more expensive) alternative.
The truth is that Matcha is healthier, but also more expensive and more inconvenient to prepare. That being said, both of them are great, refreshing teas!
At Craft Tea Fox, Matcha Lattes are prepared from premium Matcha from Uji, Japan - and not from green tea!
Also, each Matcha Latte lasts in your fridge for weeks – so you can stock up, and grab a Matcha Latte anytime you feel like it.
If you'd prefer not to make it yourself, get a Matcha Latte delivered to you.
Just bought a Matcha whisk? Here's what you need to know :)
When you first get your Matcha whisk, you'll notice that the bamboo tips of the Matcha whisk (both inner and outer) are tightly curled up.
What you need to do is to get the tips to unfurl or 'bloom'. This will help the whisk to adhere to the shape of the bowl better and prevent the Matcha from clumping up.
This will help to unfurl and widen the tips of the Matcha whisk.
See the above picture to see how much larger the Matcha whisk becomes after being soaked in water.
Now you can use it to whisk your lovely Matcha or Hojicha brew!
Whisking in a proper manner can help you to ensure that the Matcha particles are incorporated well with water and air, and create that frothy, creamy Matcha mixture.
After whisking, wash the Matcha whisk with warm water.
Place the Matcha whisk in a bowl of warm water and whisk until the bamboo whisk is clean.
Alternatively, try to put it under a stream of tap water until you don't see any more Matcha particles. You don't have to use dishwashing liquid as water can do the job.
Do not place it in a dishwasher as it will damage the bamboo whisk.
To air-dry the bamboo whisk, you can lay it on its end such that the tips are in the air.
Try not to dry it on the side as the Matcha whisk may lose its shape. You can also use a whisk holder which can allow the Matcha whisk to dry while retaining its shape.
Do not put it back in the container as the Matcha whisk may have expanded and not able to fit in it anymore. Only keep the Matcha whisk once the Matcha whisk is completely dry to prevent mold from growing.
Hope that these tips help you to prepare, care for and maintain the Matcha whisk!
Also, you may notice that the bamboo whisk has certain marks or discolouration - this is normal since the whisks are made from natural bamboo.
If you have any questions, you can email us at hello@craftteafox.co or drop us a DM on Instagram - we will be happy to help! :)