Just like there are “coffee people,” you’ve probably met a few matcha people. Unlike their caffeinated counterparts, Matcha People have ditched the underground slam-poet look in exchange for naturally-dyed, ethically-produced atheleisure wear. (All opinions here are totally biased, and are not applicable to everyone).
I myself am a Dabbler. I like coffee and I like matcha, but A bean is a bean is a bean… and a leaf is a leaf is a leaf for me. I can’t really tell the difference between a small-batch, hand roasted americano and a $1 McCafe pour over (yes, I’m calling it a pour over, a name it rightfully deserves). However, I know this isn’t the case for everyone. Coffee People can get really ground up about this – and so can Matcha People.
Just like coffee beans, matcha leaves come with a grading system. When buying your own matcha, it’s important to look for ceremony-grade, organic, Japanese matcha that is BRIGHT green in color. I know ground green tea leaves isn’t going to be everyone’s cup of tea (somebody give me a mic), but that’s what keeps us (and all baristas out there) on our toes. Experimenting with different coffee shops and trying out different tea houses can open us up to new tastes and flavors, so that maybe we can live in a coexisting space of Coffee People + Matcha People, alike.
Whether your only experience with matcha left you with an earthy, bitter aftertaste, or your a Coffee Person ready for a changeup, this Matcha Latte might provide a more palatable entrance into The World of Matcha. Still full of the high antioxidants matcha is known for, this rendition is slightly sweetened by the dates and uber creamy from the hemp seeds. Blend, sip, and enjoy.
Matcha Latte
Yields: 1 serving
INGREDIENTS:
- 8 oz hot HOT, but not boiling water (also – I’ve never weighed out 8 oz of anything in my life… just do enough to fill your cup)
- ½ – 1 t matcha powder
- 1 – 2 dates (dependent on preferred sweetness)
- 1 T hemp seeds
- ¼ t coconut oil
- Sprinkle winkle of cinnamon
DIRECTIONS:
- Place all ingredients in high-speed blender, and whizz until frothy!
- **Similarly – this recipe could be done ceremoniously by using only matcha powder and water. Simply put the matcha in your mug and slowly add the hot water. Whisk to incorporate.
- ***You can buy sets that include a mug, mini sifter (for matcha powder), and a wooden whisk to perform this ritual way of enjoying matcha!
the exhale 