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Nutrition Facts
Calories | 121 kcal |
Total Fat | 6.2 grams |
Sodium | 66.9 grams |
Total Carbohydrate | 10.2 grams |
- Dietary Fiber | 0 grams |
Protein | 5.9 grams |
Ingredients and Price List
Food | Amount Used | Unit Cost (SGD) | Cost Per Use (SGD) |
|---|---|---|---|
Matcha Powder (I used Niko Neko YURI Matcha Powder) | ~4g / 4 bamboo scoops or "chashaku" | $1.74 | |
Meiji Fresh Milk | 150ml | $0.99 | $0.74 |
Water | ~30ml | - | Negligible |
| TOTAL: | $35.76 | ~$2.48 |
Iced Matcha Latte in a Glass Cone Cup with Glass Straw.
Matcha is a specially prepared green tea, cultivated with care and precision. Unlike regular green tea, matcha is grown in the shade for about three weeks before harvesting. Learn more about the differences between green tea and matcha in my previous post to avoid buying the wrong tea powder.
This shading process enhances the chlorophyll content, giving the tea its vibrant green color and rich, complex flavor. Once harvested, the leaves are steamed, dried, and ground into a fine powder. This traditional method ensures that matcha retains its potent nutrients and distinctive taste.
Matcha's versatility extends beyond the traditional tea ceremony. It's a popular ingredient in baking, adding a unique flavor and a boost of antioxidants to cakes, cookies, and pastries. However, one of the most beloved uses of matcha is in beverages, particularly the matcha latte.
In this post, I made a matcha latte using the popular Niko Neko Yuri Matcha Powder which is used in many cafes, however I heard good reviews from Naoki Matcha Barista Blend Premium Organic Matcha Powder too.
Health Benefits of Matcha
Regular consumption of matcha can significantly benefit both physical and mental health, making it a valuable addition to a health-conscious lifestyle. Why? Here is a scientific journal that explored the health benefits and chemical composition of matcha, and I have extracted out a few compelling reasons below:
Rich in Antioxidants: Matcha is packed with catechins, a type of phenolic compound with strong antioxidant properties which helps fight free radicals in the body. Phenolic compounds occur naturally in matcha leaves, and as matcha is cultivated by grinding the entire tea leaf into powdered form, it contains a high amount of antioxidants. (This is also why matcha is richer in antioxidants than green tea - the grinding process itself may have accelerated the extraction of polyphenolic compounds.)
Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Again, thanks to the high catechin content, matcha contains anti-inflammatory properties. Specifically, (−)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) can inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, reducing inflammation and the risk of chronic diseases related to inflammatory processes, such as arthritis and cardiovascular diseases.
Supports Cardiovascular Health: Matcha can benefit heart health by improving blood lipid levels, reducing arterial plaque formation, and enhancing overall cardiovascular function. The antioxidants in matcha help to protect the heart by preventing oxidative damage and improving endothelial function.
Boosts Metabolism and Aids in Weight Management: Matcha can also aid in weight loss by enhancing metabolic rate and increasing fat oxidation during exercise. The catechins, especially EGCG, enhance thermogenesis and help the body burn calories more efficiently, making matcha a valuable addition to a weight management regimen.
Detoxification and Cleansing: The high chlorophyll content in matcha helps in detoxifying the body by removing heavy metals and harmful chemicals. Chlorophyll also promotes healthy liver function, enhancing the body's natural detoxification processes.
Calm Alertness and Improved Concentration: Matcha contains L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes relaxation without drowsiness, making it a great choice for mental clarity. Additionally, the combination of L-theanine and caffeine helps to enhance focus and cognitive function.
Iced Matcha Latte Prepared Using TEANAGOO Matcha Making Set.
Traditional Matcha Tools
Matcha holds a special place in Japanese culture. The traditional tea ceremony, known as Chanoyu, is a spiritual and meditative practice that emphasizes mindfulness, respect, and harmony. The preparation and consumption of matcha are central to this ceremony, with traditional tools like the Chashaku (a bamboo scoop used to measure the amount of matcha powder), Chawan (a ceramic bowl used for whisking and serving matcha), and Chasen (a bamboo whisk used to blend matcha with water, creating a frothy, smooth tea) playing crucial roles.
While there is an initial cost for purchasing matcha-making tools, these items are long-lasting and can be used to make matcha latte for years. For beginners, buying a complete matcha kit is more cost-effective than purchasing individual items, and I got my beginner's matcha kit from TEANAGOO.
Hot Matcha Latte in a Glass Vertically Striped Cup.
Step-By-Step Guide in Making Matcha Latte
Scoop and Sift the Matcha: Use Chashaku (bamboo scoop) to scoop about 4g of matcha powder through a mini sieve into a Chawan (ceramic bowl with a spout), which is around 4 scoops.
Mix the Matcha: Add 50ml of Meiji fresh milk and about 30ml of water to the Chawan. Use a Chasen (bamboo whisk) to blend the mixture until frothy.
Froth the Milk: Pour 100ml of Meiji fresh milk into a French Press. Pump the French Press to incorporate micro foam, creating a thicker, creamier texture. This is a budget-friendly alternative to using a milk steamer (you can make cafe latte at home with this method too!)
Assemble the Drink: Scoop some ice balls into a cup. Add the frothed milk, then pour in the matcha mixture.
Alternatively, instead of using the whisking method, you can use the shaking method with any durable bottle, the frothing method with a handheld electric frother, or the blending method (the Starbucks way) to blend your matcha mixture.
Which method do you use to prepare your matcha latte?
Whisking
Shaking
Frothing
Blending
Hot Matcha Latte in a Ceramic Shiba Cup.
Benefits of Making Matcha Latte at Home
You have control over the ingredients. When you make your own matcha latte, you know exactly what goes into your drink. No preservatives or artificial flavors, just pure, high-quality ingredients. One way to fully maximize the health potential of matcha is to completely exclude sugar - and you can make sure of that if you prepare it on your own.
Also, homemade matcha lattes are significantly cheaper (~$2.48 per cup!) than store-bought ones. Here are a few matcha latte prices in Singapore for your reference:
Store | Matcha | Price (SGD) |
|---|---|---|
Hvala Cafe | Ceremonial-grade Iced Hana Matcha | 13.50 |
Hvala Cafe | Premium-grade Iced Yuki Matcha | 8.50 |
Syip Cafe | Iced Matcha Latte | 6.60 |
Matchaya Cafe | Ceremonial-grade Signature Koicha Milk (Cold) | 10.00 |
Matchaya Cafe | Matcha Milk (Cold) | 6.50 |
Nana's Green Tea Cafe | Matcha Latte Cold | 7.60 |
Starbucks | Iced Pure Matcha Latte (Tall) | 7.40 |
If you're unsure whether matcha is the drink for you, try getting the Naoki Matcha $2.99 Sampler Set, and just use any bowl and spoon you have on hand to prepare it. If you like the drink - and I hope you do - then slowly explore deeper into the art of making matcha!
TL;DR: Make a matcha latte at home. It's healthy, it's cost-effective, and it makes you cultured. So, grab your matcha kit and start whisking!
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Home-made Matcha Latte Ingredients & Kitchenware Recommendations
Item | Recommendation |
|---|---|
Matcha Powder | |
Matcha Powder (Alternative) | |
Matcha Powder (Alternative) | |
Fresh Milk | Meiji Fresh Milk |
Matcha Making Kit | |
French Press | |
Chasen, Bamboo Matcha Whisk (Alternative) | |
Chawan, Bamboo Matcha Bowl (Alternative) | |
Ceramic Matcha Whisk Holder (Alternative) | |
Mini Stainless Steel Sieve (Alternative) | |
Spherical Ice Ball Mould Tray | |
Nice Cup | |
Nice Cup (Alternative) | |
Nice Cup (Alternative) |
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