Matcha, a finely ground powder made from specially grown and processed green tea leaves, has been a staple in Japanese tea ceremonies for centuries.

Its unique flavor and numerous health benefits have made it a popular ingredient worldwide, not just in teas but in various culinary creations.

Among these, the matcha milkshake is a refreshing blend of rich, earthy matcha and sweet, creamy milk—a perfect treat for any time of the year.

How to choose matcha

The quality of matcha powder is paramount in creating a delicious matcha milkshake. Here's how to choose the best matcha for your shake:

Grade: Matcha comes in different grades, from ceremonial to culinary. For milkshakes, culinary grade is sufficient and more cost-effective, though ceremonial grade will provide a superior taste.

Color: Look for a vibrant, bright green color. A dull, yellowish, or brownish green indicates oxidation and inferior quality.

Origin: Matcha from Japan is generally of higher quality than from other countries. Regions like Uji (Kyoto), Nishio (Aichi), and Yame (Fukuoka) are renowned for their Matcha.

Texture: High-quality matcha is finely ground to a talc-like powder. Coarser textures may indicate lower quality and can result in a gritty milkshake.

Smell: Fresh matcha emanates a distinct grassy aroma. Any signs of staleness or unpleasant odors indicate lower quality or aged matcha.

How to make a matcha milkshake

Here's a detailed guide to making your matcha milkshake:

Ingredients:

1. 2 teaspoons of high-quality matcha powder

2. 1 cup of milk (dairy or plant-based)

3. 2 scoops of vanilla ice cream (for creaminess and sweetness)

4. Ice cubes (optional, for a thicker consistency)

5. Sweetener to taste (sugar, honey, or a sugar substitute)

6. Whipped cream and Matcha powder for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Sift the matcha powder into a bowl to remove any clumps to ensure a smooth texture in your milkshake.

2. Add the sifted matcha powder and a little milk into a blender, then blend until the matcha is fully dissolved. This step prevents the matcha from clumping together when mixed with the rest of the ingredients.

3. Add the rest of the milk, ice cream, and ice cubes to the blender. If you prefer a sweeter milkshake, add some sweetener.

4. Blend all the ingredients until smooth. The consistency should be thick and creamy. Adjust the amount of milk or ice cream to achieve your desired thickness.

5. Pour the milkshake into a glass. For an added touch of elegance, top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of matcha powder, if desired.

Making a matcha milkshake is a delightful way to enjoy the traditional flavors of matcha in a modern, indulgent form. The process of making a matcha milkshake is straightforward but allows for creativity in terms of sweetness and consistency. Whether you're a long-time matcha enthusiast or new to its distinct taste, a matcha milkshake offers a refreshing and healthful treat that's perfect for any occasion.