Slowly and gradually, people are falling for Matcha Powder for drinks, desserts, and even skincare practices. In this article, we will understand what matcha is and why Matcha Powder is so popular. Preparing Matcha is a little different from making regular green tea. Tea plants are shaded for three weeks before they are harvested. This boosts the chlorophyll content in the plant and leaves it with that bright green colour. The leaves are then steamed and dried afterward, and then they are crushed down to a fine powder.
Health Benefits of Matcha Powder
Health, one would say, describes matcha as a superfood full of nutrients that feed not only the body but also the mind. Among the many health benefits enumerated, some of the more important include the following:
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Energy Without Jitters
Most people nowadays use matcha powder to get a smoother energy boost compared to that from coffee. Though matcha has caffeine, the energy produced by it is balanced and lasts for a longer time in the body. This is because an amino acid called L-theanine exists in matcha, which has been known to somehow work hand-in-hand with caffeine in producing a feeling of calmness and focus.
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Improves Metabolism
Second, matcha boosts the metabolism and burns fat. According to studies, matcha may potentially enhance the process of burning fats in the body, thus becoming an in-demand beverage for controlling weight. The metabolism of a person can be given a mild boost when drinking matcha, allowing the body to burn calories effectively.
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The Ceremonial Experience of Matcha
As the world speeds up in speed nowadays, people are finding a need to slow down to appreciate small things. Matcha is not just good for the body but also soothes the mind. The traditional procedure for preparing matcha is typically a part of the Japanese tea ceremony—it’s a slow and thoughtful process. When whisking the matcha and gradually pouring it to allow for slow sips, the one consuming becomes very conscious and present in the moment.
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Preparation in the Kitchen
Another reason why matcha powder is becoming popular is because it can be used in so many different dishes in the kitchen. While mainly used to make tea, the usage goes way beyond that. Find matcha in smoothies and lattes, cakes and ice creams, and even savoury dishes.
Here are some of the popular ways people use matcha in their recipes
- Matcha Lattes: It is among the favourite cafe drinks for it is mixed with hot or iced milk; a matcha latte is made from matcha powder. It can be a creamy and wonderful substitute for coffee, and it can be drunk both hot and iced.
- Smoothies: Matcha added a good amount of antioxidants and energy with subtle bitterness to fruit smoothies. Sweet fruits like bananas and berries complement well the slightly bitter taste of matcha.
- Savoury Dishes: Perhaps less popular, but a few chefs have ventured to use it in savoury dishes, which include flavouring soups, sauces, and marinades.
The Rise of Matcha and the Social Media Factor
Social media did its part to bring about the recent boom in matcha powder popularity. Instagram and TikTok have become venues for beautiful photos and videos about matcha drinks, desserts, and even skincare products. The vibrant colour makes it a favourite subject for influencers and health-conscious bloggers to share recipes and matcha-inspired creations with followers.
Environmentally Friendly Choice
Eco-friendly behaviour in everyday life calls attention to itself. This gives more interest to matcha powder because this powder is seen as a greener alternative for consumption than coffee. The process behind matcha powder usually needs fewer resources, like water. Many of the brands sell their matcha with organic farming, and these organic farming practices do not use deadly pesticides and chemicals.
Thus, matcha meets the demands of people who are willing to opt for an environmentally friendly decision but still want something as perfect in quality and taste.
The Introduction of Matcha Latte
The most common use of matcha powder is when making a matcha latte, whereas the latter involves mixing matcha with hot milk to create a smooth and creamy drink. This perfectly captures the earthy flavour of matcha with the sweetness of milk as a perfect and beautiful contrast.
The matcha latte is the new caffeine fix for many, bringing a kind of steadier source of energy while also being easily customizable. For those wanting an even lighter alternative, plant-based milks such as almond or oat milk can be used.
Conclusion
There seems to be a surging rise of matcha powder due to the health benefits it possesses, in addition to its calming preparation process and its ability to apply to preparing anything from sweet to savoury dishes. From its antioxidant properties to its ability to provide high-level energy without crashing, matcha offers a long list of benefits that have commanded the attention of health-conscious individuals across the globe. Whether in your cup of tea, a smoothie, or that great Matcha Latte, you have to consider that matcha is indeed a trend that appears to be here to stay.
