With its signature fresh aroma, vibrant green color, and smooth umami flavor, matcha has become one of the most beloved drinks around the world.
From trendy cafés in Tokyo to homes across Indonesia, matcha isn’t just a fleeting trend it’s a deep-rooted part of a healthy lifestyle. But have you ever wondered what matcha really is?
In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the world of matcha uncovering its cultural origins in Japan, the unique process behind its production, and how to serve it at home.
At the end, we’ll also introduce you to Prendjak’s matcha tea variants that can be your healthy companion every day.
What Is Matcha?
Matcha is a finely ground powder made from high-quality green tea leaves. Unlike regular green tea that is steeped and discarded, matcha is consumed whole, making it richer in antioxidants and nutrients.
Because the whole leaf is ingested, matcha offers a more concentrated source of health benefits earning it the title of a “superfood” in the world of healthy beverages.
Compared to regular green tea that only delivers the water-soluble compounds, matcha provides the full spectrum of what the tea leaf has to offer.
Its rich green color is not only visually appealing, but also a sign of its high chlorophyll and antioxidant content, especially EGCG which helps support immunity and natural detoxification.
The Origins of Matcha
Matcha traces its roots back to 12th-century Japan, when Buddhist monks brought the practice of tea drinking from China and developed it into a meditative ritual.
This is when the method of grinding tea leaves into powder emerged, giving birth to what we now know as matcha in Japanese culture.
Matcha became a core element in the Japanese tea ceremony (chanoyu), which emphasizes simplicity, mindfulness, and appreciation in every sip.
Over time, matcha evolved beyond ceremonial rituals. It became a modern lifestyle choice symbolizing health, calm, and joy in a single cup.
Today, we enjoy matcha in everything from hot drinks and iced lattes to delicious desserts.
Read Also: Scientifically Proven: Why Tea Helps Relieve Work Stress
How Matcha Is Made
The process begins with cultivating tencha tea leaves under shade for 20–30 days before harvest.
This shading technique slows the plant’s growth and increases chlorophyll levels, resulting in a bright green color and signature umami taste. Only the youngest and most tender leaves from the top of the plant are selected.
Once harvested, the leaves are steamed to prevent oxidation, dried, and stripped of stems and veins. They are then ground slowly using traditional granite stones into an ultra-fine powder.
This meticulous process ensures maximum nutritional value and flavor too much heat can damage both. That’s what makes matcha a premium drink with optimal benefits.
Easy Ways to Serve Matcha
Enjoying matcha doesn’t have to be as complex as a Japanese tea ceremony. Here are a few simple ways to savor this green tea goodness at home:
1. Traditional Matcha (Usucha)
The most authentic way is preparing usucha, or “thin tea.” Mix 1 tsp of matcha with 60–80 ml of hot water (around 80°C), and whisk with a chasen (bamboo whisk) until frothy.
This method is perfect for those who want to experience pure matcha, no sweeteners, no milk. Its subtle bitterness and rich aroma offer a calming effect, ideal for morning relaxation or light meditation.
2. Iced Matcha Latte
Prefer something cool and creamy? Try an iced matcha latte. Dissolve 1 tsp of matcha in a small amount of hot water, then pour over ice with your milk of choice: cow’s milk, oat, or almond milk.
Sweeten with honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar to taste. It’s the perfect refreshing boost for a midday pick-me-up, minus the caffeine crash.
Read Also: Green Tea for Glowing Skin: Benefits and How to Use It
3. Matcha Smoothie
For a more filling option, turn matcha into a smoothie! Blend matcha with banana, yogurt, honey, and a splash of milk.
This makes a great healthy breakfast or afternoon snack. The combination of matcha’s antioxidants with the nutrients in fruit and yogurt gives you energy that lasts all day.
Enjoy Matcha the Easy Way with Teh Prendjak
Short on time? You can still enjoy the goodness of matcha anytime with Prendjak Instant Matcha Latte.
Crafted from premium matcha and smooth, creamy latte, this instant beverage delivers indulgent taste and lasting health benefits.
Just mix and sip. It’s that simple. Experience the health-boosting magic of matcha in the most convenient way. Start your matcha moment with Teh Prendjak today!
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