Some time a little over a year ago, I was served my first Matcha latte by a friend, and I was hooked. Coffee always made my tummy turn, and I'd been looking for a healthy alternative ... this is it!
Matcha is a special kind of powdered green tea grown and produced mostly in Japan. The powder brews a rich in antioxidants tea which is said to have many health benefits.
It is said to enhance calm, burn calories (not sure I believe that), boosts memory and concentration (that I can attest to), and fortifies the immune system among other things. All I know for sure is that I love it. And it doesn't make me shake or have a tummy ache like coffee does.
I'll admit it's pricey, but it's way less expensive to brew at home. And the good stuff is also hard to find in coffee shops except in larger markets although it is becoming more common. In LA it's virtually all over the place. In Phoenix/Scottsdale? Not so much.
So here's my recipe for brewing your own matcha latte sans the milk art at home. (I haven't the foggiest notion how to create milk art.)
What you'll need:
Matcha powder. I love this brand which I have delivered regularly from Amazon.
Milk of your choice
A milk frother/steamer or blender to create froth
honey (optional... I don't use any sweeter myself)
Directions:
Mix 1 tsp matcha powder with half a cup of hot water (I use a kettle that has the temp set at 175* which is apparently perfect for green tea).
Whisk together using your bamboo whisk. Add a little honey now if you choose to sweeten.
Heat/steam and froth 1/2 cup of milk.
Pour the tea mixture into your favorite mug.
Pour the milk on top.
That's it! Enjoy!
Let me know in the comments if you plan on making yourself a cup!