Creamy Matcha Latte

I am a big coffee drinker but I don’t care for the 2 pm crash or the mineral depletion that comes with it. I was introduced to green tea/matcha early in my clean-eating journey. I made the terrible decision to get one from Dunkin Donuts and all I have to say is it tasted like fish… Matcha latte is not just a drink; it’s a delightful experience that combines the rich, earthy flavors of high-quality matcha with the creaminess of milk. Using Japanese ceremonial grade matcha, whole milk, and your favorite sweetener, you can create a soothing beverage perfect for any time of day. Let’s dive into how you can whip up this delicious drink at home!

Ingredients

• 1-2 teaspoons Japanese ceremonial grade matcha

• 10-12 oz whole milk (dairy or non-dairy alternatives work too)

• Sweetener of choice (honey, maple syrup, agave, or sugar)

• Optional: frother or whisk

Instructions

1. Prepare the Matcha
   Start by sifting 1-2 teaspoons of ceremonial grade matcha into a bowl to remove any clumps. This step helps in achieving a smooth texture and ensures a well-mixed latte.

2. Add Water
   Pour in about 2oz of hot water (not boiling, around 175°F or 80°C) into the bowl with the matcha. Using a bamboo whisk (or a milk frother if you have one), whisk the matcha and water together until it becomes frothy and vibrant green. This should take about 30 seconds to a minute.

3. Heat the Milk
   In a small saucepan, heat your whole milk over medium heat until steaming but not boiling. If you like, you can froth the milk using a frother or a whisk in a separate bowl to create a light and airy texture.

4. Combine
   Slowly pour the hot milk into the bowl containing the whisked matcha, allowing the two to meld beautifully.

5. Sweeten to Taste
   Stir in your chosen sweetener gradually, adjusting to your preference. Whether you prefer a touch of honey or a splash of maple syrup, let your tastes guide you.

6. Serve and Enjoy
   Pour your vibrant matcha latte into your favorite mug, and take a moment to enjoy its lovely green hue. Sip slowly to savor the rich flavors, and relish the calming effect of the matcha.

Benefits of Matcha

Using ceremonial grade matcha offers numerous benefits. It contains antioxidants, which help protect your body from damage by free radicals, and it provides a gentle caffeine boost without the jitters. The L-theanine in matcha promotes relaxation and focus, making it a fantastic choice for a mid-morning pick-me-up or an afternoon treat.

Final Thoughts

Making a matcha latte at home not only saves you a trip to the café, but it can also be a fun and rewarding ritual. Plus, you can customize it exactly to your liking! So whip out your favorite mug, and enjoy the creamy, earthy goodness that a matcha latte brings. Whether you're new to matcha or a seasoned fan, this delightful beverage is sure to brighten your day. Enjoy!