Matcha is a vibrant green, finely ground powder made from specially shade-grown tea leaves. Its unique processing begins with shading the plants before harvest, which enhances chlorophyll production and nutrient concentration. The leaves are then steamed, dried (called tencha), and stone-ground into a silky powder.
Unlike traditional teas, where leaves are steeped and discarded, matcha is consumed whole by whisking the powder into hot water or milk, delivering the complete nutritional benefits of the entire leaf. This results in a potent beverage with a distinctive sweet, vegetal, umami flavor and concentrated antioxidants that support energy and mental focus.
Rich in nutrients and natural caffeine, matcha provides sustained energy without the jitters. However, its high tannin content can affect iron absorption, so it's best enjoyed between meals rather than with iron-rich foods.
