MATCHA

Matcha- is a finely ground powder of specially grown and processed green tea leaves, traditionally consumed in East Asia. The green tea plants used for matcha are shade-grown for three to four weeks before harvest. Matcha is also used to flavor and dye foods, such as mochi and soba noodles, green tea ice cream, matcha lattes and a variety of Japanese wagashi confectionery.

ORIGIN:

In the 12th century, Matcha was discovered by a Buddhist monk, Myoan Eisai, and brought to Japan.

PRODUCTION:

Matcha is made from shade-grown tea leaves that also are used to make gyokuro. The preparation of matcha starts several weeks before harvest and may last up to 20 days, when the tea bushes are covered to prevent direct sunlight. This slows down growth, stimulates an increase in chlorophyll levels, turns the leaves a darker shade of green, and causes the production of amino acids, in particular theanine. After harvesting, if the leaves are rolled up before drying as in the production of sencha , the result will be gyokuro (jade dew) tea. If the leaves are laid out flat to dry, however, they will crumble somewhat and become known as tencha. Then, tencha may be deveined, destemmed, and stone-ground to the fine, bright green, talc-like powder known as matcha.

Grinding the leaves is a slow process because the mill stones must not get too warm, lest the aroma of the leaves be altered. Up to one hour may be needed to grind 30 grams of matcha. The flavour of matcha is dominated by its amino acids. The highest grades of matcha have a more intense sweetness and deeper flavour than the standard or coarser grades of tea harvested later in the year.

HOW TO MAKE MATCHA TEA ?

*Sift 1-2 tsp matcha into a cup using a small sifter.

*Add 2oz hot water. For best results use water just under a boil.

*Whisk vigorously in a zig zag motion until the tea is frothy.

*Enjoy your matcha tea straight from the bowl.

NOTE- It is always important to have the best Matcha powder and Bamboo Matcha Whisk to make your matcha more delicious.

In New Delhi, the forest, in Vasant Vihar, serves the best matcha in town.