What to look for in Matcha? A comprehensive guide

Matcha is more than just a trendy drink - it's a traditional green tea that has been enjoyed in Japan for centuries. It offers numerous health benefits and a unique taste experience. But before you dive into the world of matcha, there are a few important aspects to consider. In this post, you'll learn what to look for when buying and enjoying matcha to ensure you get the most out of this wonderful powder.

Quality of Matcha

1. Origin and cultivation

The quality of matcha depends heavily on its origin. High-quality matcha usually comes from Japan, particularly the Uji, Nishio, Shizuoka and Kagoshima regions. These areas are known for their optimal growing conditions. Make sure the product comes from one of these areas to ensure you get high-quality matcha.

2. Cultivation method

Organic matcha is grown without the use of pesticides and synthetic fertilizers. This is not only better for the environment, but also for your health. Products like BetterShop's organic matcha guarantee a pesticide-free harvest and sustainable cultivation.

3. Harvest time

The timing of the harvest plays a crucial role in the quality of the matcha. The best tea leaves are harvested in spring, when the leaves are still young and tender. These leaves have a higher content of amino acids, which gives the matcha its characteristic umami taste.

Processing of Matcha

1. Shading

Before harvesting, the tea plants are shaded for about three to four weeks. This process increases the chlorophyll content in the leaves and gives the matcha its bright green color. Make sure the matcha you buy is made from shaded tea leaves, like BetterShop's premium matcha .

2. Grinding

Real matcha is traditionally ground in stone mills to a fine powder. This slow and gentle process preserves the nutrients and aroma of the tea. Industrially ground matcha often loses quality and taste.

Taste and texture

1. Taste

High-quality matcha is characterized by a sweet, mild taste and an intense umami flavor. A bitter taste can indicate inferior quality. Try different varieties to find your favorite. The Ceremonial-Grade Matcha from BetterShop offers an incomparable taste experience.

2. Textur

The texture of the matcha powder should be fine and velvety. Lumps or a coarse texture indicate poor processing. A fine matcha is easy to froth and dissolves well in water.

Colour and freshness

1. Color

The color of a high-quality matcha should be bright green. A pale or yellowish color can indicate poor quality or poor storage. Make sure the matcha powder you buy has an intense green color, like the Organic Matcha from BetterShop .

2. Freshness

Matcha loses flavor and nutrients over time, so buy smaller quantities and store them in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. Fresh matcha has a vibrant aroma and intense flavor.

Preparation of Matcha

1. Utensils

To prepare matcha traditionally, you need a bamboo whisk (chasen), a matcha bowl (chawan) and a bamboo spoon (chashaku). These utensils help you to measure out the matcha correctly and to froth it up. A complete matcha set from BetterShop offers everything you need.

2. Preparation steps

1. Sift 1-2 teaspoons of matcha into the bowl to avoid lumps.
2. Add about 70 ml of hot but not boiling water (approx. 80°C).
3. Beat the matcha with the bamboo whisk in W-shaped movements until a fine foam forms.

Health benefits

Matcha is rich in antioxidants, particularly catechins such as EGCG, which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and cancer-preventing properties. It also contains L-theanine, an amino acid that has a calming effect while promoting concentration. Another benefit is the caffeine it contains, which has a gentler and longer-lasting effect than the caffeine kick from coffee.

Conclusion

Matcha offers a unique taste experience and numerous health benefits. When buying, pay attention to the origin, cultivation method, processing, taste, texture, color and freshness of the matcha. With the right utensils and careful preparation, you can get the most out of your matcha. Discover the different qualities and varieties that BetterShop has to offer and find your perfect matcha.

By taking these factors into account, you can ensure that you enjoy a high-quality matcha that is both tasty and healthy.