In my opinion, the official drink of the summer should definitely be Watermelon Basil Matcha. The inspiration behind this matcha drink came from a blend I sampled during one of my tea tastings for Amoda Tea’s subscription box. It had watermelon flavour with basil and a few other herbs. It reminded me so much of watermelon basil skewers! I needed to blend those flavours together and drink a pitcher of it on a hot summer day. Of course I wanted to add tea to it, too. Fresh watermelon is pureed with basil leaves then layered with matcha green tea for a refreshing, herbaceous and naturally sweet tea drink!
Watermelon Matcha is actually a popular and very tasty combination and because of the two colours, it makes such a visually appealing drink. So, that’s how this iced watermelon basil matcha drink was born!
Iced Watermelon Matcha with Basil (or another herb!)
If you don’t love basil, you can omit and just make a regular iced watermelon matcha. However, I highly suggest replacing the basil with something else like fresh mint or moringa leaves. The herbaceous notes from this drink really add to the sweet watermelon and vegetal matcha.
What is the Best Matcha to use for Watermelon Basil Matcha?
My answer to this question is almost always “your favourite!” If you want to enjoy this matcha recipe, then use a matcha green tea powder that you already love.
If you have a matcha that you drink regularly and love the taste, please use that. You don’t need to use the most expensive ceremonial grade matcha, however it should still be high quality. Any of these best matcha brands will work great in this recipe.
Thanks to the naturally sweet watermelon, no other sweetener is needed for this drink. Seriously!
So, if you have a matcha on hand that you don’t enjoy too much the traditional way (as a hot tea) because it is too bitter, this may be a great recipe to use it up. The sweet watermelon will cut into those bitter matcha notes.
However, keep in mind that the look to this drink is part of the appeal. Therefore, you should still use a matcha that is vibrant green! A dull, brown-ish culinary grade matcha won’t look so well with the red puree.
Get the Layered Watermelon Matcha Look
How do you prevent the watermelon and matcha from mixing right away? If you want a layering effect with this drink, it’s important to pour the matcha directly on the ice cubes and very slowly. This way it doesn’t merge with the watermelon basil puree so quickly.
It can also be helpful if you pour the matcha over the back of a spoon. Serve and enjoy the drink immediately after so you and your guests can admire the separated layers look.
Once the green matcha and red watermelon merge the colour won’t be as pretty, but the taste will still be delicious and that’s what is most important!
Iced Watermelon Basil Matcha Recipe
This recipe can make 2 servings. But, if you want extra you can definitely just make a big glass for yourself!
Here is what you will need:
3/4 cup fresh watermelon, cubed and seeds removed
4 fresh basil leaves
1 teaspoon matcha
1/2 cup cold water
ice
more watermelon and basil for garnish (optional)
glass & blender
Directions
1. In a blender, add the cubed watermelon and fresh basil leaves. Blend until smooth.
2. Pour the watermelon basil puree into a glass (fill halfway) and add ice.
3. In a sealed jar or bottle add the matcha and cold water. Shake vigorously until there are no clumps and there is a nice froth on the surface. This is cold brew matcha.
4. Slowly pour the cold brew matcha into the glass, on top of the ice cubes and watermelon basil puree until the glass is full. Pour it over the back of a spoon if you want more of a layered look.
5. Garnish with a watermelon cube and fresh basil, if desired. Serve and enjoy immediately!
Iced Watermelon Basil Matcha
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup fresh watermelon cubed and seeds removed
- 4 fresh basil leaves
- 1 teaspoon matcha
- 1/2 cup cold water
- ice
Instructions
- In a blender, add cubed watermelon and basil leaves. Blend until smooth then pour into a glass halfway and fill with ice.
- In a sealed jar or bottle, shake matcha with cold water until there are no clumps and there is a nice froth. This is cold brew matcha.
- Slowly pour the matcha into the glass on top of the ice and watermelon basil puree.
- Garnish with more watermelon and basil (if desired). Enjoy!
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Will you use basil in this recipe or another herb? Let me know in the comments below!