Matcha tea and its health benefits
What is matcha tea?
Matcha is powdered green tea. It comes from the tea plant, called Camellia Sinensis, found in Japan, just like black tea. Its leaves are harvested and shade-dried, increasing their chlorophyll content. When you open a tin of matcha, you are met with an explosion of emerald-green colour!
Matcha leaves are gently ground in granite stone mills to produce an extremely fine powder. Drinking matcha guarantees you consume tea leaves with a refined, sweet and creamy flavour.
What are the benefits of this Japanese green tea for the body?
Matcha is a drink renowned for its benefits for the body :
- antioxidant (matcha tea is one of the green teas richest in antioxidants, those molecules that strengthen the immune system and help fight the development of certain diseases, you know?)
- antibacterial and antiviral;
- metabolism-regulating;
- anti-stress (thanks to the presence of L-theanine, an amino acid known to affect our stress and anxiety levels)
How should matcha tea be consumed?
There are 3 types of matcha:
1. Ceremonial matcha
Made from the first leaves of the Japanese tea plant, it is enjoyed on its own mixed with simmering water. Be sure to sift it well and leave it to infuse for a few minutes before tasting. Discover Kusmi Tea organic ceremonial matcha!
2. Premium matcha
Premium matcha is an excellent compromise between quality and versatility. Its fine, vivid green powder comes from carefully selected leaves that are slightly more mature than those used for ceremonial matcha. It can be enjoyed pure to appreciate its mild vegetal notes, but it is also ideal for drinks such as matcha lattes, thanks to its balanced, less bitter flavour. It is the perfect choice for everyday enjoyment combining pleasure and quality.
2. Matcha for cooking
The powder is dark green in colour, made from drier leaves. Culinary matcha is used to flavour pastries such as muffins, madeleines and chocolate fondants. There is no shortage of recipes, and some are truly delicious! At Kusmi, we love to vary our pleasures: coconut milk matcha latte,matcha chai latte and many other recipes to try in the kitchen!
5 ways to recognise quality matcha
1. The colour of the powder
Quality matcha can be recognised by its intense green colour. If you are offered dark green or yellowish matcha, it is best to decline!
2. The origin of the tea (preferably Japan)
Historically, the best matcha tea is said to have been imported into Japan in 1191, although it appears to originate from China. It was consumed during tea ceremonies by followers of Zen Buddhism. We nevertheless recommend choosing Japanese origin, which is more reliable in terms of product quality. Beware of unpleasant surprises, as the name matcha can be given to any type of powdered green tea.
3. Aroma and flavour
If you drink jade-green matcha with a light foam and bubbles, you can be sure it is premium matcha, made from the first flushes. Its grassy flavour is rather sweet and subtle on the palate. If, on the other hand, its colour is dull and its taste bitter, you have been misled about its quality...
4. The organic label
Choose matcha with an organic label whenever possible to avoid ingesting potential pesticides. What is more, the label guarantees numerous quality checks during the product’s production and manufacture. At Kusmi, we are committed to sustainable agriculture through various initiatives for a healthier life that respects the environment.
5. The price of the tin
A 30 g tin of ceremonial matcha costs around thirty euros, compared with around twenty for culinary matcha. The price of matcha depends on its grade (or range), quality, harvest and origin. Matcha tea is generally more expensive than its green and black tea cousins. So be vigilant if the price shown on the label seems low. The most expensive matcha range is Ceremonial matcha, considered a very high-quality premium tea. Questions? Discover our detailed guide to matcha prices!
Now you know how to recognise quality matcha! To enjoy the best organic matcha, look for its bright green colour. Savour its slightly bitter yet sweet flavour. Close your eyes to enjoy this unique experience. And do not choose a tea that is too cheap. To discover other varieties of green tea, visit our blog!