Matcha is a vibrant green tea powder that has been enjoyed for centuries in Japan and around the world. Known for its health benefits and unique flavour, matcha is more than just a drink – it’s an experience. Making a perfect cup of matcha is an art, but it’s one you can master with the right tools and technique. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to perfect your matcha preparation, this step-by-step guide will help you craft a delicious, frothy cup every time.

What You’ll Need

Before diving into the preparation process, it’s important to gather the right tools and ingredients to ensure the best results. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Matcha Powder: Choose a high-quality ceremonial-grade matcha for drinking, or a culinary-grade matcha for cooking and lattes. Ceremonial-grade is the most vibrant and smooth, perfect for traditional whisking - try our 'Matcha Kotobuki'. 
2. Bamboo Whisk (Chasen): This traditional whisk is used to mix matcha powder with water, creating the frothy texture matcha is known for.
3. Matcha Bowl (Chawan): A wide, shallow bowl designed to allow enough space for whisking.
4. Sifter: Sifting the matcha powder before whisking helps prevent clumps.
5. Bamboo Scoop (Chashaku) or Teaspoon: Used to measure out the right amount of matcha.
6. Hot Water: Ideally, the water temperature should be around 60-70°C.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Matcha

1. Sift Your Matcha Powder

• Start by sifting 1-2 teaspoons (or 2 chashaku scoops) of matcha powder into your matcha bowl. Sifting ensures that the matcha is free of clumps, which helps create a smooth, frothy tea. Use a small strainer or sieve to break up the powder as it passes through.

Tip: This step is often overlooked but makes a significant difference in achieving a lump-free matcha. If you don't have a sieve then ensure to take extra care when when making a paste during step three. 

2. Heat Your Water to the Right Temperature

• Boil water and then let it cool slightly. The ideal water temperature for matcha is around 60-70°C. If the water is too hot, it can burn the delicate tea powder, which will result in a bitter taste.

Tip: If you don’t have a thermometer, let the boiled water sit for about 5 minutes before using it.

3. Add a Small Amount of Water

• Pour a small amount of water (about 2-3 tablespoons) into the matcha bowl with the sifted powder and combing to create a paste, making it easier to whisk into a smooth consistency.

Tip: Use just enough water to create a thick matcha paste, which will be whisked into the remaining water later.

4. Whisk Vigorously in a “W” Motion

• Using your bamboo whisk, whisk the matcha and water mixture in a zigzag or “W” motion. The goal is to whisk briskly to create froth. Keep your wrist loose and whisk from the wrist instead of the elbow for a smooth movement. Continue whisking until you see a layer of small bubbles forming on the surface, and the matcha becomes smooth and frothy.

Tip: Whisking in the "W" motion ensures even mixing and creates the signature froth matcha lovers enjoy.

5. Add the Remaining Water

• After achieving the frothy paste, slowly pour in about 70-100 ml (roughly 1/3 to 1/2 cup) of hot water into the bowl, depending on how strong you want your matcha. Continue whisking lightly to combine the matcha with the water.

Tip: For a thicker (koicha) matcha, use less water and more powder. For a thinner (usucha) matcha, use more water.

6. Enjoy Your Perfect Cup of Matcha

• Once whisked to perfection, your matcha is ready to drink! Sip slowly, savouring the creamy texture and rich umami flavour. 

Bonus: Matcha Latte Variation

If you’re looking to make a matcha latte, simply follow the same steps for whisking the matcha, but replace the water with warm milk of your choice (dairy, almond, oat, etc.) after creating the initial matcha paste. You can sweeten your latte with honey or syrup if desired.

Choosing the Right Matcha

The quality of matcha you use will greatly impact the flavour and texture of your tea. For the best experience, choose a ceremonial-grade matcha for drinking such as Matcha Kotobuki. It’s made from the youngest tea leaves and is shade grown which gives it a vibrant colour, smooth taste, and delicate umami flavour. For matcha-based recipes and baking, culinary-grade matcha is a great option, as it blends well with other ingredients while maintaining its rich green colour and flavour. 

At Waterloo Tea, we offer multiple matcha grades to suit your preferences, from premium ceremonial matcha to versatile culinary matcha. Explore our selection and find the perfect matcha for your daily ritual.

Conclusion

Making the perfect cup of matcha is both an art and a relaxing ritual. With the right tools and a little practice, you can enjoy a smooth, frothy matcha at home. The vibrant colour, rich flavour, and health benefits make matcha an excellent choice for tea lovers and wellness enthusiasts alike. Ready to start your matcha journey? Shop our high-quality matcha here and bring the tradition of matcha into your everyday life.