By Fredrica Syren:
I have a confession to make: I’m addicted to matcha lattes. For years, a cup of hot coffee used to be what got me out of bed. Then a couple of years ago, I switched to the more healthy option of white tea — until I began my love affair with matcha tea.
Instead of drinking only the liquid brewed from regular leafy green tea, you actually drink a finely ground powdered green tea, Matcha. This tea originated in China, where matcha then was used as a drug for healing various ailments. Today, matcha tea is becoming more popular and can be found in many mainstream coffee places. Since it contains caffeine, it has become a popular replacement for coffee because of its many health benefits.
Matcha tea is packed with nutrients such as vitamin A, vitamin B-complex, vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin K, and trace minerals. Furthermore, it is a good source of components with super antioxidant activity including polyphenols, catechins and chlorophyll. The presence of amino acids such as L-theanine and theophylline in the matcha tea is what makes a super nutrient packed drink.
Other benefits of matcha tea include the following:
- Boosts immune system
- Boosts memory and concentration
- Lowers blood sugar and cholesterol
- Helps boost metabolism and burn calories
- Detoxifies the body
My favorite way of drinking matcha tea is as a latte:
- 1 teaspoon matcha powder
- 1/4 cup boiling water
- 3/4 cup plain almond milk
- Honey or agave to taste
- Bring enough water to a boil for the number of servings you are mak Whisk.
- 1 teaspoon matcha powder per serving with 1/4 cup boiling water.
- Once powder is dissolved into water, mix in the milk.
- Sweeten to taste with honey or agave.