Europeans have always shown an interest in Asian culture, including the many varieties of tea. One of the exotic species that have become popular today is matcha (matcha). The name has nothing to do with Latin American mate or the ubiquitous mint. This unique healthy drink came to other countries from Japan (although initially the technology for its production appeared in China). Fortunately, now it has become much more affordable, and there is no need to go on a long journey to buy matcha tea, healing and original.
Special consistency
Powdered matcha tea is not at all the same stuff in common tea bags. Indeed, the smallest particles of tea leaves, debris, "dust" from the main production fall into the bagged varieties. And matcha powder is made in a completely different way - from full-fledged leaves.
Matcha (authentic) is the result of the processing of a hand-picked tea leaf in the optimal season, in early spring (even before the main harvest). The shading of the bushes contributes to the production of necessary substances in the plant: the concentration of caffeine and theanine increases. Saturated leaves are processed as follows: exposed to steam, then dried, remove the coarser parts of the leaf (stems, veins). The final stage is the grinding of raw materials using stone millstones. The Japanese prefer granite wheels to obtain a high quality product, they turn the raw materials into almost powder. The fineness of grinding to obtain greater fineness increases the value of this drink.
Is it always bright green?
Matcha tea looks quite impressive due to its bright color. It is close to shades of young greens, emeralds or olives. What is sometimes called "blue matches" has a different origin: it is an herbal tea called "anchan", from a plant growing in Thailand - clitoria trifoliate (also known as butterfly peas).
To the credit of the Japanese tea-"powder" I must say that it is an organic product that does not contain any "chemistry", additives, enhancers and sweeteners. It retains its natural flavor.
Proven benefits
People are interested in tea not only as a pleasant drink: its ability to stimulate and support the work of various organs is very important. Of course, if the leaf completely enters the body, then its effect becomes stronger. The match is especially praised for its high concentration of antioxidants. That is why consumers are eager to buy matcha tea: the rare qualities of the ground leaves are excellently manifested when brewed.
Unique properties of matches include:
- protection of the cardiovascular system;
- increased concentration and memory;
- increased metabolism;
- reduced anxiety.
There are no negative consequences of this tea. You just need to pay attention to the contraindications typical for caffeinated products.
Ceremony, or how best to brew match powder
Another important difference from tea bags and loose leaves: matcha powder becomes part of the drink, the liquid is not separated from the brewed product. The degree of strength can be different. The less composition per liter, the weaker the tea. The starting threshold is 1–2 grams per cup. If you stir strictly according to the rules, then there will not be the slightest plaque on the walls and lumps. The tea ceremony involves the use of a measuring spoon, bowl (bowl) and a special bamboo whisk heated in hot water for stirring.
By the way, about water. The maximum temperature for this tea is seventy degrees, no more. And the powder is stirred in it very smoothly, not in a circle, but from wall to wall of the vessel, achieving homogeneity. Whipping the tea until creamy, a kind of suspension, you get a beautiful, slightly bitter and aromatic drink. Some varieties (variations of matches) have a sweetish taste. The scent of herbs allows you to relax and meditate, and after drinking tea, you will be delighted with cheerfulness and a surge of strength.
Ethnic types of tea
Coffeeynya.ua offers its customers a wide variety of different national types of tea. We select only those products that have passed the test of time: and not only in their countries, where they have become traditional for a long time, but also where they are still a novelty. The most popular types of such drinks include mate, rooibos, lapacho and, of course, matcha green tea powder. With us, you will be able to appreciate the gastronomic preferences of many nations and make the right choice in choosing worthy brands.