Origins & Evolution of Matcha
Ancient Roots
Powdered tea emerged in China’s Tang Dynasty (618–907 CE) for medicinal and ceremonial uses. Today’s matcha owes its legacy to these early innovations.
Japanese Refinement
In 1191, Zen master Eisai introduced matcha to Japan. Through centuries of refinement—shading, handpicking, and precision milling—Japan perfected the emerald-hued ceremonial grade revered worldwide.
From Camellia Sinensis to Fine Powder
-
Strategic Shading: Covering fields 2–4 weeks before harvest amplifies chlorophyll and L-theanine, intensifying flavor and vibrancy.
-
Selective Harvest: Only Ichibancha (first flush) leaves, the youngest and richest, are chosen for top-tier quality.
-
Immediate Steaming: Halts oxidation, preserving the leaf’s bright color and potent antioxidants.
-
Precision Stone Milling: Granite wheels grind tencha into a micro-fine powder—up to 30 minutes per 30 g—to deliver unparalleled smoothness.
Grades You’ll Find at Mafia Matcha
-
Ceremonial Grade: Ultra-refined, vibrant, and sweet—engineered for whisked tea rituals and mindful appreciation.
-
Premium Grade: Robust flavor profile with balanced umami—ideal for lattes, smoothies, and culinary creations.
Nutritional Profile & Clinical Benefits
L‑Theanine Synergy
Promotes focused calm; works synergistically with caffeine to enhance cognitive performance and reduce stress.
Sustained Caffeine
Approx. 35 mg per gram delivers a smooth energy ascent without the abrupt decline typical of coffee.
EGCG Antioxidants
Matcha packs up to 137x more EGCG than steeped green tea, supporting metabolism, cardiovascular health, and cellular defense.
Expert Brewing Methodology
Equipment Checklist
-
Chawan (matcha bowl)
-
Chasen (bamboo whisk)
-
Chashaku (bamboo scoop) or teaspoon
-
Fine mesh strainer
Step-by-Step Whisking (for a matcha latte)
-
Sift 1–2 tsp into your chawan to prevent clumps.
-
Add 45–50 ml of 70 °C water—boiling water scorches delicate catechins.
-
Whisk vigorously in an “M” or “W” pattern for 20 s until a dense froth forms (speed of whisking is also improtant!).
-
Consume immediately to maximize antioxidant retention and flavour clarity. Also, matcha settles down quickly, so pour it in your cup as soon as possible.
Preservation & Freshness Guidelines
-
Store in a sealed, opaque container—light and air degrade chlorophyll and flavour compounds. Never put your pouch/tin once opened in the fridge as it might cause condensation.
-
Refrigerate after opening and consume within 6 weeks for optimal vibrancy.
-
Avoid moisture: never use a wet scoop.
Pro Tips & FAQs
Is matcha gluten-free?
Yes—pure matcha contains no gluten. Verify blends if added flavours are present.
Can I craft the perfect latte?
Certainly—use 1 heaped tsp matcha with 45ml of hot water and with frothed 150 ml milk of choice for a velvety latte, we recommend to use oat or coconut milk.
Ideal daily intake?
Limit to 10 g per day to harness benefits without overconsumption of caffeine. Listen to your body and see how it feels, as people are having different caffeine sensitivities.
Ready to Elevate Your Ritual?
Experience the Mafia Matcha difference: explore our ceremonial matcha for premium whisking.