Matcha latte is a delicious and popular drink made by combining matcha powder with steamed milk. Matcha is a type of green tea that is made by grinding tea leaves into a fine powder
Why The Matcha Latte
There are several reasons why people enjoy drinking matcha lattes:
Health Benefits: Matcha is known for being high in antioxidants, specifically catechins, which are believed to have various health benefits, including reducing the risk of chronic diseases and improving overall well-being.
Boost of Energy: Matcha contains caffeine, which can provide a gentle energy boost without the jittery feeling that some people experience with coffee. The combination of caffeine and the amino acid L-theanine in matcha is said to promote alertness and concentration.
Relaxation: Some people find that the ritual of preparing and drinking a matcha latte is relaxing and can help them unwind and de-stress.
Unique Flavor: Matcha has a distinct earthy and slightly bitter flavor that some people find appealing. When combined with steamed milk in a latte, the flavor is balanced out and can be quite enjoyable.
Alternative to Coffee: For those looking to reduce their coffee intake or avoid the acidity of coffee, matcha lattes provide a tasty alternative that still offers a caffeine boost.
Ingredients:
- Matcha powder: High-quality ceremonial grade matcha is recommended for the best flavor.
- Sweetener: Optional, based on personal preference. You can use sugar, honey, maple syrup, or a sugar substitute.
- Milk: Choose your preferred type of milk – dairy milk, almond milk, oat milk, soy milk, etc.
- Hot water: Not boiling, around 175°F (80°C) is ideal.
STEPS TO MAKE THE MATCHA LATTE:
Step One:
Sift the matcha: Sift 1-2 teaspoons of matcha powder into a bowl to remove any clumps and ensure a smooth consistency.
Step Two:
Add hot water: Pour a small amount of hot water (about 2 oz or 60 ml) into the bowl with the sifted matcha powder. Whisk the matcha and water together using a bamboo whisk or a small whisk until frothy and well combined.
Step Three:
Heat the milk: In a separate saucepan or using a milk frother, heat your choice of milk until it’s hot but not boiling. You can also steam the milk for a creamier texture.
Step Four:
Sweeten the milk: If you prefer your latte sweetened, you can add your sweetener of choice to the hot milk and stir until dissolved.
Step Five:
Combine matcha and milk: Pour the frothy matcha mixture into a cup. Slowly pour the hot milk over the matcha while using a spoon to hold back the foam.
Step Six:
Finish with foam: Spoon the remaining foam on top of the latte for a finishing touch.
Step Seven:
Optional toppings: You can sprinkle a little extra matcha powder on top or add a dusting of cinnamon or cocoa powder for decoration.
Step Eight:
Enjoy your matcha latte: Stir the matcha latte gently before sipping to blend the flavors.
Feel free to adjust the ratio of matcha to milk and the sweetness level according to your taste preferences. With a little practice, you’ll be able to customize your matcha latte to perfection.