Tea cultivation and culture is widely recognized to have its roots in China. However, the Japanese have enhanced this tradition by bringing an artistic perspective, perfecting the tea experience. In the 12th century, a man named Myōan Eisai, dissatisfied with Buddhist teachings in Japan, traveled to China to learn about Zen teachings, where he discovered green tea consumed in powdered form. This intrigued him so much that after his first trip, he returned to China for a second journey to study powdered green tea further. On deciding to go back home, he took some green tea seeds that fascinated him, marking the beginning of Japan’s green tea journey. In this article, we discuss the highly antioxidant matcha tea that spread from Japan to the world, and compile a list of the best matcha teas you can find in Turkey.
What is Matcha Tea?
Matcha, in its simplest definition, refers to green tea leaves processed into a powdered form. Like all other teas, it is derived from the Camellia sinensis plant, but its cultivation and processing differentiate it from other teas. The leaves intended for matcha are grown in the shade, which maximizes chlorophyll production and helps maintain the vibrant green color of the leaves. With less sunlight exposure, the leaves experience reduced photosynthesis, resulting in a natural variation of caffeine, sugar, antioxidants, and theanine levels. After harvesting, the leaves are steamed, dried on flat surfaces, and ground in a slowly rotating stone mill. Due to the fact that the leaves used for matcha are only harvested in spring, it makes matcha one of the most expensive teas in the world.
What are the Health Benefits of Matcha Tea?
Known for its unique and complex flavor that many enjoy, matcha is also celebrated for its health benefits. Just like many plant-based teas, Japanese herbal teas have long been used in traditional medicine to treat ailments. A Japanese proverb suggests that medicines beneficial for health often taste bitter. Matcha tea confirms this adage with its slightly bitter and intense flavor along with its positive effects on human health. Rich in various nutrients, matcha is known to accelerate metabolism and aids in better sleep and relaxation. While its aroma may seem unusual, it is thought to possess therapeutic properties. With its high antioxidant value, regular consumption of matcha can reduce the risk of cancer and heart disease. The significant chlorophyll content, a result of its shade-grown technique, helps in reducing toxins and heavy metals in our bodies, while matcha also exhibits strong detoxifying effects.
How to Consume Matcha Tea?
There are two methods to prepare your matcha. The first is Usucha, which is more commonly used in daily life. The second method is Koicha, a traditional approach predominantly applied during tea ceremonies or special occasions. For newcomers to matcha, the Usucha method is generally recommended. If you wish to prepare matcha using the Usucha method, follow the instructions below.
Preparation of Usucha:
- Sift your matcha to eliminate any lumps and achieve a smoother taste.
- Using a bamboo scoop called Chashaku, add two scoops of matcha into a matcha bowl known as Chawan. If you don’t have a matcha set, around a teaspoon or so of matcha is sufficient in a bowl for preparation.
- Add 70 ml of hot water, ensuring the water temperature is about 80°C. If the water has boiled, allow it to cool slightly.
- Whisk the matcha rapidly in a W-shaped motion using a bamboo whisk known as Chasen, or a milk frother. It’s crucial to avoid a circular whisking motion to achieve the desired frothy consistency.
The Best Matcha Teas Available in Turkey
Chado – Matcha Tea
User Comment: I’ve tried matcha tea in many places for its benefits, but I could never like it. I recently decided to purchase it from Chado as a last resort, and I truly loved it. I don’t know what I had before, but the taste is completely different. If you’ve tried matcha in various places and didn’t enjoy it, perhaps you should give this tea a chance.
Melez Tea – Matcha Tea
User Comment: I’ve tried matcha from two different brands before, but the taste, aroma, and even the color of this matcha are top-notch??
Güzel Gıda – Matcha Powder
User Comment: I liked it and I recommend it to everyone.
Matchai – Premium Matcha
User Comment: Thank you very much!!! Delicious? all are wonderful ??
Wefood – Matcha Powder
User Comment: Good, quality product. If you try it plain at first, you might not enjoy it, so you should try softening it with milk and honey.☺️
