MATCHA TASTE & HOW TO MAKE IT: FROM CEREMONIAL TO ICED LATTES
Matcha’s flavor profile can be hard to describe until you taste it. Below is a clear breakdown of what matcha tastes like, how grades affect flavor, and step-by-step methods to make traditional and modern matcha drinks (hot, iced, latte, smoothie).
What does matcha taste like?
- Primary notes: grassy, vegetal, and umami (savory).
- Secondary notes: subtle sweetness, marine/seaweed hints in high-quality ceremonial matcha, and mild astringency if over-extracted.
- Grade differences: Ceremonial matcha is smoother, brighter, and less bitter; culinary/latte grades are bolder and hold up well in milk or baking.
How to make traditional whisked matcha (hot)
Ingredients: ½–1 tsp Emerail ceremonial matcha, 60–80 ml water at ~80°C (175°F).
Method:
- Sift matcha into a bowl to remove clumps.
- Add ~60 ml hot water (not boiling).
- Whisk briskly in a “M” or “W” zigzag motion with a matcha whisk (chasen) until frothy.
- Sip immediately to enjoy full aroma and freshness.
Matcha latte (hot)
Whisk 1 tsp latte-grade matcha with 60 ml hot water, then top with 180 ml steamed milk (dairy or oat/almond). Sweeten to taste.
Iced matcha latte
Whisk 1 tsp matcha with 30–40 ml cool water until smooth, pour over ice, add 180 ml cold milk. Optional simple syrup for sweetness.
Matcha smoothie (quick)
Blend ½–1 tsp matcha + 1 banana + 1 cup milk (or plant milk) + a handful of spinach + ice. Great for breakfast or post-workout.
Tips to get the best flavor
Water temp matters: ~80°C (175°F) preserves sweetness; boiling water makes it bitter.
Sift matcha: avoids clumps and improves mouthfeel.
Use fresh matcha: storage in a cool, dark place or refrigerator keeps color and aroma.
Adjust dose: less matcha for milder, more for vivid green and stronger taste.
Grade choice: ceremonial for pure sipping; latte/culinary for drinks and baking.
Quick sensory pairing ideas
Pair ceremonial matcha with a small sweet (wagashi) or mild cheese for contrast. Use latte-grade matcha in bolder pastries like matcha brownies.