When it comes to surviving Oregon’s notoriously dark and damp winters, mornings definitely find me protectively clinging to a steaming mug of full-bodied, locally-roasted coffee. But when warm weather rolls around, my solar-powered self craves something cooler (and less high-octane) to provide a light boost to my day. I’ve found a number of traditional and herbal iced tea recipes that often fit the bill, but when I really want to treat myself, I take the time to whip up a special treat: a chilled organic matcha tea latte.
Matcha strikes an ideal balance between the energizing properties of your java fix and the bright, springy freshness of a green or herbal tea. Its lush and enlivening scent accents its bright, grassy flavor: a balance of umami, bittersweet, and smooth creaminess, especially when combined with dairy (or an alternative milk for a vegan matcha tea latte). A cup of matcha may contain roughly the same caffeine content per serving as coffee, but I personally have experienced its energizing effects to be less intense and jolting than those of my winter cups of joe.
I love the organic matcha tea powder offered here at Mountain Rose Herbs because it’s cultivated and prepared using the same practices as the powder used in traditional Japanese tea ceremonies; it’s shade-grown in Kyoto prefecture, harvested while the Camellia sinensis leaves are young and tender, and then dried and slowly ground into fine powder through a special technique that helps it retain its nutrients, chlorophyll, and STUNNING green color. The result? A gorgeous, complex, power-packed beverage that makes my whole body smileÑI hope it does the same for you. 🙂
Iced Matcha Latte Recipe (Traditional Preparation)
Makes 1 serving.
Ingredients
- å? tsp. organic matcha powder
- å? tsp. organic lemongrass powder (optional)
- 5 fl. oz. hot (not boiling) water
- 2 tsp. organic local honey or agave (or to taste)
- å? cup milk of your choice, room temperature (staff favorites include full-fat cow’s milk, coconut milk, and soy milk)
- Ice
Directions
- Sift organic matcha powder and organic lemongrass powder into a small, heat-safe tea mixing bowl (a traditional bamboo matcha spoon and mesh tea strainer work well for this; see our matcha making video tutorial for pro tips!).
- Gradually add water, and whisk to combine with powder in bowl (any whisk will do, but a traditional matcha whisk is specially shaped for this purpose).
- Once powder is completely incorporated (about 45 seconds), add honey (or alternative sweetener) to the warm liquid and whisk until dissolved.
- Gradually whisk in milk until texture is smooth and frothy.
- Pour over ice, let chill for a minute, and enjoy!
We LOVE the traditional preparation for optimal smoothness, but if you need a quick and easy matcha latte recipe to take on-the-go, there’s a simplified version as well!
Iced Matcha Latte Recipe (Easy Mason Jar Preparation)
Makes 1 serving.
Prepare in a half-pint jar with lid.
Ingredients
- 1 tsp. organic matcha powder
- A few drops warm water
- 1 cup milk or vegan alternative of your choice
- 2 tsp. organic local honey or agave (or to taste)
- Ice
Directions
- Scoop organic matcha powder into jar, then add a few drops of water.
- Stir to form a paste, adding more water as needed (this prevents powder clumps).
- Add milk, honey or agave, and a couple ice cubes.
- Screw lid securely onto jar, then shake to mix.
- Grab, go, and enjoy!
Wondering how to use matcha in Hot Tea?
Watch Our Matcha Tea How-To Video!
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This blog post was originally published in 2014 as a part of our weekly series: The Sunday Steep.