What is Matcha Macha or Maccha?

Matcha (macha or maccha, all common spellings) is a finely ground powder made from the leaves of Camellia sinensis plant, grown, harvested, and stone-ground in such a way as to maximize levels of L-theanine, chlorophyll, and other health-promoting nutrients.

This versatile condiment has become an indispensable ingredient in everything from drinks to cakes, with Tejal Rao of The New York Times Magazine declaring it the MVP of condiments in 2020.

‘Culinary Uses’

Macha is an extremely versatile ingredient used in both sweet and savoury recipes, adding vibrant green hues and umami-rich umami flavour to many popular meals and dishes. Macha can also be enjoyed as tea suspended in hot water or blended into lattes or other drinks featuring matcha flavoring.

“Futurefocus Chinese cuisine employs matcha powder in several dishes, such as green onion pancakes (mach jin) and fish dipping sauce known as ma n (ma ch). Furthermore, matcha can also be added to genmaicha tea to create matcha-iri genmaicha (roasted brown rice and green tea blended together with added matcha).”

Japanese cuisine often uses rice vinegar as an ingredient for sushi, yakitori, tempura and other dishes, and it is also popularly added to smoothies and other cold drinks.

‘Drinks’

Matcha adds an exotic and nutritious flavor profile to a range of beverages – from tea and juice, non-alcoholic beers and cocktails, through to spirits – making an exciting addition for any beverage you may encounter.

Josh Schaffer created his matcha whiskey sour using koicha (the highest grade of green tea that’s been finely ground into powder) and Woody Creek single-distillery potato vodka, then combined its earthy and toasty notes with sugar and fresh citrus for an irresistibly refreshing sipper perfect for warm weather sipping. For an added visual twist pair it with stylish wave glasses from Australian tabletop brand Fazeek for an experience as delightful as its flavor – Stella Totino of The Strategist

Read also:What is Macha Powder?