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How to brew matcha at home

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If you want to make matcha the way it's made in Japan, there are some basic tools and techniques you should know.

Matcha has become increasingly popular among tea lovers - and for good reason! This concentrated, stone-ground green tea offers an intense flavour, delicious aroma and a unique, frothy texture. What's more, matcha is rich in antioxidants and nutrients because the whole tea leaf is consumed.

The matcha equipment you need

To get the authentic matcha experience at home, it's a good idea to use traditional equipment. Here's what you need:

Matcha powder

Choose a high quality matcha powder, preferably one labelled as "ceremonial grade" for the best possible taste and aroma. The better the quality, the less bitterness and more natural sweetness.

We offer three different quality levels of matcha. Click through to find your favourite: Matcha Hotaru Beginner's Favourite, Matcha Kasumi Daily Pleasure and Matcha Megumi Ceremonial Premium.

Chawan (bun)

A wide and deep bowl that leaves plenty of room to whisk the matcha properly is important to get the tea fluffy and creamy. Traditionally, you drink matcha straight from the bowl

See our range of matcha bowls here.

Chasen (bamboo whisk)

An indispensable tool used to whisk matcha into a lump-free, airy and creamy foam. The shape and bamboo material make the whisk especially suitable for matcha.

You can find the chase in our webshop here.

To maintain the shape of the bamboo whisk, it is common to use a whisk holder. It preserves the shape and extends the life of the bamboo whisk. You can find the ceramic whisk holder here.

Chashaku (bamboo spoon)

This spoon gives you the right amount of matcha - usually 1-2 spoons for one serving.

You can find chashaku in our webshop here.

Fine mesh strainer

Before adding water, it's important to strain the matcha powder to remove any lumps and make the tea easier to blend.

All this equipment is available in our online shop here.

How to brew matcha - step by step

  1. Sieve the matcha: Using the strainer, sift 1-2 teaspoons of matcha powder (or two chashaku spoons) directly into the chawan to ensure a smooth and lump-free tea.
  2. Add water: Pour in a small amount of hot water (approx. 70-80°C). Do not use boiling water - it could spoil the flavour and make the tea bitter.
  3. Whisk with the chaser: Using the chaser, whisk quickly in a W or M formation until a dense, green foam forms on top. This usually takes around 15-20 seconds.
  4. Enjoy! You can drink the matcha as it is - pure and intense straight from the bowl - or add more hot water for a milder version. Want something sweeter and richer? Add hot or cold milk to make a matcha latte. Many people also choose to stir some syrup or fruit puree into their iced latte version for a fresh, summery drink.

Why drink matcha?

Matcha has a full-bodied, grassy flavour and a texture that adds a lot of structure to the mouthfeel. Because you consume the whole tea leaf in powder form, you get a higher concentration of nutrients such as antioxidants, caffeine and amino acids compared to regular green tea. A perfect drink for both flavour and well-being.

To make real, traditional matcha at home, you need the right equipment, good matcha powder and a little technique. With a few simple steps, you can enjoy a cup that both tastes good and does good.