I always say it’s important to prepare tea the way you will like it and this most definitely includes matcha. It can be a bit of an acquired taste when prepared the traditional way, however, that’s not the only way to enjoy matcha. The great thing about this powdered Japanese green tea is that it is very versatile. If you didn’t have the best experience drinking it one way, there are a variety of matcha drinks to try. Even though I typically recommend and enjoy matcha prepared the traditional way, I don’t discourage other ways to drink matcha. In fact, I love creating other recipes for myself and others. From lattes to slushies, here are my favourite ways to drink matcha.
6 Matcha Drink Recipes
Which matcha drink will you be sipping on next? Find the best one that suits your taste preferences!
Hot Tea (traditional or non-traditional)
Just like any other type of tea, matcha is primarily prepared as a hot tea. While it may be a bit different to make and doesn’t require a steeping time, you’re encouraged to try it this way first so you can experience matcha entirely on it’s own. Traditionally, matcha is made with a bowl (chawan) and bamboo whisk (chasen), but you’re not restricted to that method. It’s okay if you just have a mug and another tool (ie. electric frother or blender) to make your tea smooth and clump-free. Follow my how-to make matcha tutorial here.
However, in case matcha with just hot water is not your cup of tea, here are five other ways to try out the powdered green tea…
Iced Matcha
If you find yourself turned off by a strong, grassy or even bitter taste from making your hot matcha, try icing it! Iced tea is a real refresher on a warm day and your matcha tea can be iced just the same. Preparing it as you would for a hot tea, you can then pour the whisked matcha in a glass filled with ice and enjoy. Alternatively, you can shake your matcha in a bottle with just cold water. It’s as simple as that!
Matcha Latte (hot or cold)
If you’re not a huge fan of matcha on its own, another popular way to enjoy the beverage is in latte form. Making the matcha as you would for a hot or iced tea and then adding steamed milk to your cup will give your matcha some new flavours. This is especially recommended for matcha grades that are lower in quality as the milk and sweetener in the latte version can help off set any bitterness. Also, a latte can be made with any kind of milk. Whole milk, soy milk, almond milk, coconut milk. If you didn’t enjoy your matcha latte with one, you can always it with try another!
Matcha Smoothie
Adding a teaspoon or two of matcha to your morning smoothie can add some health benefits to your day. Depending on what else you add to your smoothie, the powered green tea’s taste may not be too strong. If you’re someone who likes the idea of matcha and all of its antioxidants, but are not a fan of the taste no matter the quality you try, then a matcha smoothie may be what you need. While the tea may be hidden with other ingredients here, the health benefits are not. However, if you’re interested in a simple matcha smoothie that lets the tea shine, try this recipe.
Matcha Slushie
Matcha slushies are my go-to during the warmer seasons. The simple act of making matcha ice cubes can transform into a super refreshing and quick beverage. If you’re a fan of iced/cold matcha drinks especially, then I highlight suggest giving matcha slushies a try! The only ingredients are matcha, water and a sweetener of your choice. Have I peaked your interests? Try this recipe to make your own!
Matcha Mojito (Mocktail or Cocktail)
If something doesn’t make your taste buds dance on its own, it’s okay to add ingredients that will help them get moving. A matcha mojito is the perfect example. By muddling mint and lime, you’ll get a nice base for a mojito. Top it off with a lightly sweetenend matcha, lime juice and ice to make a flavourful beverage that will definitely have you wanting more matcha. With a splash of rum you can easily turn it into a cocktail, too. Here’s the full recipe!
Want to enjoy matcha? Pin these drink ideas for later here –> https://bit.ly/2OLXLh2
What’s your favourite way to make, drink and enjoy matcha? Share in the comments below!