Matcha powder, made from finely ground, steamed green tea leaves, has become a favorite in drinks and desserts worldwide. This vibrant green powder is packed with nutrients, making it not only a delicious treat but also a healthy one.
Originating in China during the Sui Dynasty, matcha truly flourished during the Tang and Song Dynasties, boasting over a thousand years of history. So, what can we make with this amazing ingredient?
Matcha in Drinks
Matcha Latte
A classic favorite, the matcha latte combines the earthy flavor of matcha with creamy milk for a comforting beverage. Here's a simple recipe:
Ingredients:
• 450ml full-fat milk (adjust to your serving size)
• 30g matcha powder
• 30ml syrup (adjust for sweetness)
Instructions:
1. Pour syrup into your cup.
2. Heat the milk in a pan on low heat until it starts to foam.
3. Gradually add the matcha powder while stirring.
4. Once the milk is ready, pour it into the cup with syrup.
5. If you're feeling fancy, try your hand at latte art!
This drink is smooth, creamy, and packed with matcha goodness. Whether you're sipping it in the morning or after lunch, it's the perfect treat.
Matcha Mint Soda
For a refreshing and slightly tangy treat, try this matcha mint soda.
Ingredients:
• 4g matcha powder
• 20g water
• 200ml soda water (or Sprite for a sweeter version)
• Ice cubes
• Fresh mint leaves
• 1 tsp mint syrup (optional)
Instructions:
1. Mix the matcha powder with 20g of water to create a smooth paste.
2. In a glass, pour the soda water and add mint syrup if you like extra sweetness.
3. Stir in the matcha paste and mix well.
4. Add ice cubes and fresh mint leaves for a refreshing touch.
5. Decorate with a sprig of mint on top for extra flair.
This fizzy drink is perfect for a hot day and offers a refreshing combination of mint and matcha flavors!
Matcha in Desserts
Matcha Mille-Feuille (Matcha Napoleon)
Imagine layers of delicate pastry filled with rich matcha cream. That's the magic of a matcha mille-feuille! The crisp, buttery layers are balanced perfectly with the creamy, slightly bitter matcha filling.
Ingredients for the Pastry:
• 150g all-purpose flour
• 40g cornstarch
• 5g matcha powder
• 60g butter
• 500ml milk
• 50g powdered sugar
• 3 eggs
Instructions:
1. Combine flour, cornstarch, matcha powder, and powdered sugar. Add to warm milk and whisk to combine.
2. Whisk the eggs in and strain the mixture to remove any lumps.
3. Bake the pastry layers and cool them before assembling.
4. Layer the pastry with matcha cream and chill the dessert before serving.
This dessert is a beautiful balance of crispy and creamy, with the vibrant green matcha flavor shining through.
Matcha Cheesecake
A creamy, rich matcha cheesecake is a fantastic way to indulge. Cold and velvety, it's perfect for summer or anytime you want a comforting dessert.
Ingredients:
• 150g cream cheese
• 30g sugar
• 3 egg yolks
• 80ml milk
• 3 sheets of gelatin
• 6g matcha powder
• 280g whipped cream
• 100g digestive biscuits
• 40g butter
Instructions:
1. Prepare the base by mixing crushed digestive biscuits with melted butter and pressing into a pan.
2. Soften the cream cheese and mix with sugar.
3. Heat milk, dissolve matcha powder, and mix into the cream cheese.
4. Add in gelatin and whipped cream, then pour over the biscuit base.
5. Refrigerate for about two hours before serving.
The matcha flavor in this cheesecake is bold yet smooth, offering the perfect balance between the rich, creamy cheese and the slightly bitter matcha.
More Matcha Delights
Other popular matcha desserts include matcha ice cream, matcha cakes, and even matcha-flavored candies. The versatility of matcha means that we can incorporate it into almost any dessert for that earthy yet refreshing taste. Matcha treats not only look beautiful but also have a natural, slightly bitter sweetness that pairs wonderfully with other ingredients.
Conclusion
As we can see, matcha is not just a trend but a timeless ingredient that adds depth and richness to both drinks and desserts. Whether you're a matcha newbie or a seasoned fan, there's no shortage of ways to enjoy this superfood. From lattes to cakes, the possibilities are endless! So, Lykkers, which matcha treat will you try first? Let us know in the comments!
