What is matcha tea?

Become the star of social networks, the matcha shows off in all forms. In the kitchen on one side and in beauty on the other, he keeps making emulators. But who is he? Matcha is a green tea whose leaves are reduced to powder . This tea, whose green color is characteristic, is native to China, where the first powdered tea was consumed more than 1000 years ago. Japan imported in the XI century by a Buddhist monk, matcha later becomes the only tea used in the traditional tea ceremony.


What are the benefits of matcha tea on health?

Matcha tea has a very good reputation for its virtues on health and the body. Considered part of its history as a drug and designated superfood , matcha contains many beneficial substances: amino acids such as theanine, catechins or chlorophyll.

- A tea with soothing virtues:
And yes, it may sound strange, but the matcha reduces stress thanks to its relaxing effect stimulated by theanine, a substance that is almost only found in tea.

- An anti-aging tea:
Thanks to a high concentration of antioxidants , matcha enhances the immunity of the body's cells (goodbye to wrinkles!). It also helps prevent cardiovascular diseases and certain cancers. It also lowers blood pressure and lowers cholesterol : a good excuse to drink matcha tea regularly!

- A detoxifying tea:
Rich in chlorophyll (it gives it this intense green color), matcha detoxifies the body . It also has anti-bacterial properties , suppresses toxins and helps us stay healthy.


How to prepare matcha tea?

- For a light tea, pour 2 grams of matcha in a bowl. If you want a stronger tea, multiply the dose by 2, or 4 grams.
- Slowly pour 1/3 of hot water (maximum 80 ° C) then whisk with a "chasen" (bamboo matcha whisk) until a homogeneous paste forms.
- Then add the rest of the hot water and whisk vigorously to obtain a light foam on the upper layer of the patent.

It only remains to taste it! For those who want to taste matcha in all its forms, there is in Paris a Matcha Café that has made this tea, its flagship product. Cheesecake , Matcha Latte, matcha green tea cookie, noodles ... a multitude of recipes to learn about matcha, this tea that wants us good.


To learn more about matcha: "The book of Matcha", by Harumi Sugiura, published by Ochaya.