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How to make matcha

A smooth, frothy bowl of matcha takes about two minutes. All you need is matcha powder, hot water and a bamboo whisk.

What you need

• 2 grams of Japanese matcha powder, about two scoops with a bamboo scoop
• 70 ml of water at 70 to 80 °C
• A matcha bowl or another wide bowl
• A bamboo whisk
• A small sieve

Step by step

1. Warm up. Pour hot water into the bowl and soak the whisk in it for a minute. Pour the water out and dry the bowl.
2. Sift. Sift the matcha into the bowl. This prevents lumps.
3. Add water. Pour in the water at 70 to 80 °C. Boiling water makes matcha bitter.
4. Whisk. Whisk quickly from the wrist in a zigzag motion for 15 to 20 seconds, until a fine foam forms.
5. Drink. Drink the matcha straight away, before the foam settles.

Matcha latte

Whisk 2 grams of matcha with 30 ml of hot water until smooth. Add 150 to 200 ml of warm or cold milk, or a plant-based alternative. Sweeten to taste.

Tips for better matcha

• Use fresh matcha: good matcha is bright green, not yellowish.
• Too bitter? Use cooler water or a little less matcha.
• No foam? Whisk faster, in a zigzag rather than in circles.

Frequently asked questions

How much matcha per cup?

About 2 grams for 70 ml of water. For a stronger, thicker matcha, use more powder and less water.

What temperature should the water be?

Between 70 and 80 °C. Let boiled water cool for a few minutes before you use it.

Can I make matcha without a whisk?

You can shake matcha with water in a closed jar or use a milk frother. A bamboo whisk gives the smoothest result.