Do you want to prepare your green tea so you can enjoy it to its full potential? To get the right taste, it is very important to pay attention to the right water temperature during preparation. But it is not only the water temperature that is important, but also the quality of the tea. But be careful: when it comes to preparing green tea, there is a difference between green tea and matcha . Therefore, the way the two teas are prepared also differs. In this article, “Green Tea Temperature,” you will learn how warm the water should be for your tea and how you can best enjoy it. We also have a few matcha variations for you that you can enjoy at any time of day or year.
The difference between matcha and green tea
We've already written in detail about how matcha and green tea differ in a blog post. However, here are the key points: Matcha tea—unlike green tea—is made from the ground leaves of green tea plants. Green tea is the whole or chopped leaves of the tea plant. Matcha also contains only the smallest and finest leaves of the tea plant, whereas a green tea blend also contains larger, less fine leaves.
Other differences between matcha and green tea:
Production: The production methods for both types of tea differ greatly. Matcha originates almost exclusively from Japan. Shortly before the tea leaves are harvested, the plants are shaded with nets so that they receive only 5 to 10% of the sunlight. Only the finest and smallest leaves are then hand-picked and ground into a fine powder. Green tea plants grow in normal sunlight and, after harvesting, are roasted or steamed to dry. Most tea producers then roll the leaves.
Taste: Due to the differences in cultivation and production, the two tea varieties also differ in taste. Even though both varieties are made from the same plant, they can have distinct flavors. Both varieties have a grassy taste, while green tea can also have distinct flavor notes depending on the growing region and the processing of the leaves. If you want to know more about what matcha tastes like , read our blog post about it.
Preparation: Naturally, the preparation of both teas differs from the production method and the taste. With a cup of matcha tea, you essentially drink the whole leaf, since matcha is made from ground tea leaves. However, if you choose green tea, you will only drink the tea water. Green tea is prepared like regular tea. With matcha, you need to stir the powder with a little water until frothy and then add a little more water to produce the finished tea.
Optimal preparation of Matcha
Are you wondering how to best prepare matcha ? To enjoy the bitter taste of a cup of green tea (matcha), you first need to heat water, either directly to approximately 70°C or to a higher temperature and then let it cool to 70°C. It's best to use a thermometer, as the correct water temperature is very important for optimal flavor. Remember, never use boiling water for preparation.
Next, measure one to two teaspoons of matcha powder and sift it into a bowl. Mix the powder with a splash of cold water and stir well until you have a lump-free paste. Finally, pour hot water over the paste and whisk it until frothy with a matcha whisk or stir it with a frother. Your matcha tea is now ready, and you can enjoy its delicious flavor . If the matcha tastes a bit too strong for you, you can mix it with a little more water or, alternatively, with milk. We'll explain other variations in the next section.
Do you also see green? – Matcha and variations
Whether it's a matcha latte , a mango matcha smoothie , or iced matcha with strawberries , matcha can be used in so many different ways, and there are countless other ways you can enjoy the green powder besides a cup of tea. Get matcha inspiration on our blog so you can use Japanese green tea not only to make delicious drinks, but also to prepare dishes and snacks. If it's a birthday party, for example, you can make a delicious matcha cake or delicious matcha brownies . Enjoy the health benefits and relaxing effects of matcha during your yoga practice .
Conclusion
When preparing matcha tea, make sure the water you use is at the ideal temperature so the tea retains all its nutrients and stimulating properties, as well as maintaining its flavor. Find high-quality matcha for your next tea or latte at Matcha Baby!
