Matcha is n't "just a trendy green tea": it's a highly refined Japanese powdered tea whose quality depends as much on the cultivation (shade-grown) as on the raw material (tencha), the grind, and... your preparation method. As a result, many people buy matcha that's too bitter, prepare it with water that's too hot, or use too much—and conclude that " matcha isn't for me."

In this guide, you will understand what matcha really is , how to recognize a quality matcha , prepare it like in Japan (usucha/koicha) , master dosage + temperature + foam , and integrate matcha into your routine (latte, recipes) without mistakes.

is matcha ( and why is it different from green tea)?

Matcha is a powdered green tea made from tencha (shaded tea leaves that are dried without being rolled), which are then ground very finely (traditionally with a stone mill). Unlike a regular infusion, you ingest the entire leaf : this changes the texture, the aromatic intensity, and the concentration of active compounds.

Matcha vs. green tea: the difference that changes everything

• Infused tea : you extract some of the water-soluble compounds, then discard the leaves.
• Matcha : you consume the powder → more concentrated profile (taste, caffeine, catechins), but also more sensitive to defects (oxidation, bitterness, “seaweed/hay” taste if poor quality).

Why shade-grown matters

Shade increases, in particular, certain compounds linked to:

• the color green (chlorophyll),
• the umami profile and the roundness,
• the balance between bitterness and sweetness.

Benefits of matcha : what you can expect (without marketing promises)

Matcha is rich in catechins and contains caffeine and L -theanine . Scientific literature explores potential effects (stress, cognition, cardiometabolic parameters), with results varying according to dosage and individual profiles.

Energy & concentration: “calm focus” (when the dosage is controlled)

Many describe a more stable energy than coffee: the caffeine + L-theanine can promote a smoother alertness, especially if you avoid overdosing.

Antioxidants: yes, but quality and freshness take precedence

Oxidized, poorly stored, or low-quality matcha quickly loses its flavor :

• its bright color,
• its aromas (umami),
• and part of its gustatory appeal.

Limitations and caution: matcha ≠ medicine

• Matcha part of a healthy lifestyle, but it does not replace medical care.
• If you are sensitive to caffeine, pregnant, or undergoing treatment: caution and professional advice if needed.

Is drinking matcha

For most adults, daily consumption can be compatible with a healthy routine, provided that the dosage and individual tolerance .

Possible side effects (especially in excess)

Excessive matcha /caffeine consumption can lead to nervousness, palpitations, irritability, sleep disturbances, etc.

Practical guidelines (without dogma)

• Beginner : 1 cup/day (small dose) and adjust.
• Timing : avoid late afternoon if your sleep is fragile.
• Sensitive stomach : test after a light meal rather than on an empty stomach.

How to choose a good matcha : professional criteria (those that really make the difference)

Most disappointments stem from a bad purchase. Here are the specific criteria I use to evaluate a matcha .

1) Colour: bright green = good signal (but not sufficient)

• Bright green : often a sign of good raw materials + good process.
• Dull green/yellowish : possible oxidation, older leaves, less shade.

2) Taste: umami, sweetness, low astringency

A good matcha "drink" should offer:

• umami net,
• creamy texture,
• controlled bitterness (not aggressive).

3) “Ceremonial” vs. “culinary”: understanding rather than being subjected to marketing

Tip: Low-quality "culinary" ingredients + milk often result in a bitter and powdery texture clean, high- quality product is better than a marketing-driven "ceremonial" one.

4) Origin & traceability: look for information, not slogans

Choose brands that indicate:

• Originating in Japan (region/producer when possible),
• batch/harvest date,
• storage instructions.

5) Freshness and packaging

• opaque bag/box , well sealed.
• A matcha that has been open for a long time oxidizes: loss of aroma, bitterness that comes through.

Preparing the matcha (Japanese method): usucha and koicha

Preparation is key to flavor. Most " matcha " comes from 3 mistakes: water too hot , no sifting , poor whisking .

The essentials (and the alternatives)

• Chasen (bamboo whisk): best foaming result.
• Chawan (bowl): facilitates the gesture.
• Sieve : prevents lumps (key).
• Alternative: electric frother possible, but different texture (often more “bubbles”).

Usucha (薄茶): the everyday “light” matcha

Objective: a fine foam, smooth texture, aromatic balance.

1. Sift 1.5 to 2 g of matcha (≈ 1/2 to 1 level teaspoon).
2. Add 60–80 ml of water.
3. Temperature: 70–80°C (avoids “cooked” bitterness).
4. Whisk quickly in W/M mode, then finish on the surface to smooth the foam.

Koicha (濃茶): “thick” version, ultra-umami (reserved for good matcha )

Koicha requires a very high quality matcha

• Higher dose, very little water
• Slower mixing (we “knead” rather than froth)

To delve deeper into the two styles, remember above all: usucha = foam ; koicha = dense texture .

7 common mistakes (and how to correct them)

• Boiling water → cool to 70–80°C .
• No sieve → lumps guaranteed.
• Too much powder at the beginning → start low, then work your way up.
• Circular whisking → favour W/M .
• Matcha “latte” used with water → bitterness, low umami.
• Storage in air/light → opacity + strict closure.
• Aged matcha → buy smaller, consume fresher.

Matcha latte and recipes: achieving a clean taste, without bitterness

The matcha latte is an excellent format… if your base is well-controlled.

Matcha latte : a simple ratio that works

1. Sift 2g of matcha .
2. Add 30–50 ml of water at 75°C , whisk.
3. Add 150–220 ml of milk (heated or cold).

Pro tips

• Oat milk: very “café latte style”, softens nicely.
• If your matcha is bitter, don't compensate with sugar : improve the quality + lower the temperature + sift.

Quick recipe ideas

• Matcha tonic (sparkling water + ice + matcha )
• Overnight oats with matcha (light dosage)
• Yogurt + matcha + honey (avoid heating)

Matcha storage : how to prevent oxidation

Matcha is one of the most delicate teas .

Simple rules

• Close immediately, restrict airflow.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from light .
• Avoid odors ( matcha “takes on” easily).

Signs of oxidized matcha

• color that turns a dull green,
• unpleasant aroma of “hay”, “paper”, “seaweed”,
• Bitterness prevails.

FAQ — Frequently asked questions about matcha

Does matcha contain caffeine?

Yes. Matcha contains caffeine, and the effect depends mainly on the dose used and your sensitivity.

Is it okay to drink matcha every day?

Yes, for many people, in reasonable doses. In excess, it can cause nervousness or sleep disturbances.

What is the difference between ceremonial and culinary ?

The ceremonial version is designed for tasting with water (umami, subtlety, low bitterness). The culinary version is intended for recipes/lattes, with a profile that holds up better when mixed.

What water temperature is needed to prepare matcha ?

In practice, 70–80°C often gives the best balance (less bitterness, better aromas).

Usucha or koicha: which to choose?

Usucha = everyday, lighter and frothy. Koicha = thick, very concentrated, reserved for high-end matcha

Conclusion

Matcha is a demanding product: quality, freshness, and preparation determine 90% of the experience. If you remember the essentials: choose a traceable and fresh matcha sift it , use water at 70–80°C , and add the amount gradually. Only then should you explore matcha lattes , recipes, and—for the curious—koicha.

CTA: Apply the “ sift + 75°C + W whisking ” method to your next cup and note what changes (bitterness, foam, length on the palate).