Matcha green tea is a finely-ground powder made from
processed green tea leaves. The tea is prepared as a suspension in water
or milk, rather than by steeping. Ceremonial-grade matcha is a vibrant
green and has a delicate, light, bittersweet flavor. Culinary matcha, on
the other hand, has a more brownish tone and is generally considered to be
lower-quality.
Ceremonial preparation requires a sieve, a small wooden spatula
(chashaku), a bowl (chawan), and a special bamboo whisk (chasen). Usucha
(thin tea) and koicha (thick tea) are prepared with different types and
grades of matcha, and are traditionally served with a wagashi sweet to
counteract the bitterness.
Many foods, especially western-style desserts, can use matcha as a
flavoring. The grassy, lightly sweet flavor pairs nicely with many others.
Ice cream, cheesecake, mousse, and even popular snacks like Pocky and Kit
Kats can be found in a vibrant green!
