Japanese green tea: matcha’s story

In this blogpost we’ll dive deeper into the popular drink matcha, an unique view on green tea with a rich history and origin. It has a past filled with centuries old traditions, an unique production process and a beautiful cultural meaning. We’d love to tell you more about the impressive background of this delicious green drink.

Origin and early history

Matcha, literally translated to ‘fine powder tea’, finds its origin in Old China during the Tang-Dynasty (618-907 AD). Chinese monks discovered that grinding green tea leaves to a powder led to the possibilities to drink the tea as a whole, which led to the development of the first forms of matcha tea. This method of consuming tea was introduced in Japan around the 12^th century by Buddhist monks.  

The Japanese matcha-tradition

Matcha has obtained a special place in the Japanese daily life and culture. It is seen as an essential part of traditional tea ceremonies, also known as ‘chanoyu’ or ‘sado’. These ceremonies have deep roots in Japanese history and are a form of ethical spirituality that strives aims for harmony, respect, and calmness. During these ceremonies, the matcha is prepared and served following strict protocols, where every step is carefully executed to guarantee the perfect cup of tea.

Production process of matcha

Matcha’s production process is complex and requires craftmanship. The tea plants are placed in the shadow a few weeks before harvest, leading to the deep green colour and soft taste of the leaves. Only the youngest, most delicate leaves are handpicked to assure a superior quality. After picking the leaves are steamed, dried and stripped of nerves, before they’re crushed to a fine powder with the help of tradition granite mills.

Health benefits and the popularity of matcha

Besides its cultural and historical meaning, matcha is also known for its many health benefits. Matcha tea has a high concentration of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, because the whole tea leaf is consumed while drinking. It can help better concentration, stimulate the digestive system and help promote the feeling of calmness and relaxation. In recent years, matcha has grown in popularity as a health alternative to coffee and other caffeinated beverages.

Matcha in modern time

In modern time, matcha has undergone a revolution. It has caught the attention of foodies, the health-minded people and tea lovers across the globe. Matcha is now available in many different forms, like matcha lattes, ice cream, cakes and even cocktails. It is praised for its unique taste, lively green colour and natural stimulating characteristics. 

The popularity of matcha has led to a growing market of specialty tea stores and online retailers offering a wide range of matcha products. There are even competitions where tea masters can show their skills by making the best matcha possible. This had led to better quality and more variety of matcha.

Besides the traditional Japanese matcha, there are now other variants from different countries available. Think of Korean matcha, better known as ‘malcha’, and Chinese matcha named ‘matsu cha’. While Japanese matcha is still seen as the best, these variants bring interesting change and a variety of tastes.

It is importing to note that drinking matcha is not only a ‘fashion’ trend, but finds it roots from centuries old traditions and culture. It still is an crucial part of Japanese tea ceremonies and is still made and served with respect and dedication. The calming experience of enjoying a cup of matcha keeps intriguing people all over the world.

Matcha has a deeply rooted history and an enchanting origin that goes back to Old China and that’s found its way into the Japanese culture. It is cherished for its rich taste, deep green colour and health benefits. The traditional Japanese tea ceremonies show the essence of matcha, where every step is performed with the utmost care and attention.

Today, matcha is growing in popularity and has a worldwide following. It is grown into a versatile ingredient that is used in multiple culinary creations. Matcha will always be a loved drink that unites people in tradition, health and pleasure.

So, the next time you drink a cup of matcha tea, you do not only know it is a delicious tea you’re drinking, but also that it is part of a rich history and lively tradition that has been around for generations.