Is matcha and green tea the same thing? We tell you how they are different and how you can tell them apart.
Matcha tea is a type of green tea, although its production process differs.
Twenty days before harvesting, the green tea plantation is capped to increase the concentration of chlorophyll by providing matcha with its characteristic vibrant green color.
The best leaves selected and collected manually go through a long process of natural drying.
Undergo a steam bath to discard the stems and nerves, and thus, grindstone only the tender part of the leaf.
As a result, matcha tea contains 137 times more antioxidants than conventional green tea.
Green tea is a type of Camellia sinensis tea, which is not oxidized during treatment and whose leaves are collected fresh and then dried, pressed, rolled, and squeeze.
While green tea is steeped in hot water, matcha powders are added to hot water, so you consume 100% of the green tea leaf.
Is matcha and green tea the same thing?
Matcha can be tested in different preparations, compared to green tea that, due to the way it is usually marketed and the size of its leaves, can only be included in beverages.
In terms of nutritional properties, one cup of matcha is equivalent to up to ten cups of green tea.
As it is high in amino acids and antioxidants.
On the other hand, distinguishing the taste and appearance of both drinks is something very simple.
Pure infusions such as green tea have a more bitter taste, and when prepared they do not produce foam.
While matcha-based drinks have a sweet taste as well as a foamy, creamy, and soft texture.
Related article: 9 Matcha tea benefits you should be aware of.
Differences between Matcha and Green tea.
Process.
Although these come from the same plant, the process they go through is completely different.
Matcha comes from a crop found in areas of high shade, while green tea needs more time in the sun.
This results in matcha producing much more chlorophyll and amino acids, giving it a little more moisture.
For its part, green tea is usually much drier.
Texture.
When going through a completely different process, their appearance also turns out to be different.
Green tea comes in the form of dried leaves, sometimes it is usually much smaller, but it always does it this way.
For its part the matcha, we find in powder form, there is no different presentation.
Preparation.
This is something that few people notice, but there is a big difference in the preparation of both drinks.
For example, green tea only needs water at a boiling point and rest to get all its flavors, matcha needs to carry a specific temperature process to be used as you like.
Lasting duration.
Probably very few people notice this kind of thing, but the life span of both is completely different.
Sadly the matcha only has a few months of life, because it is not advisable to keep it so long in the cupboard.
You should look very carefully at it because it could affect you to take it expired.
On the other hand, green tea can have up to a year of life, so if in time for consumption and life.
We certainly have to say that green tea is much better.
Taste.
Another thing that can differentiate green tea is its flavor right here, although it can be a little more complex.
We have to say that this turns out to be much more bitter and usually needs to be added sugar so that it has a much richer flavor.
On the other hand, matcha is much more intense.
Benefits.
Although you might think that green tea has a greater nutritional contribution, the reality is quite the opposite.
Matcha has greater antioxidants and nutrients than you may think, therefore.
In terms of benefits, without doubt, matcha is a much better option than green tea.
Related article: How to make iced matcha green tea latte.
Does matcha green tea have caffeine?
Matcha has more caffeine than green tea leaves because as it is a powder when preparing it is more concentrated.
Of course, you should take into account that the amount of caffeine is greater than that of a bagged tea.
If your concern is to have too much energy after taking matcha, you’re going to be intrigued by the effects of matcha.
Matcha contains an amino acid called l-theanine, which helps your body absorb caffeine slowly.
How much caffeine is in matcha green tea?
With 1.5 g of matcha, we have about 34 mg of caffeine. It doesn’t matter what volume of water we use.
In comparison, in a cup of 250 ml of coffee, we have on average about 100 mg of caffeine.
Even if we drank coffee in a small 120 ml cup, it would be more caffeine than matcha.
The amount of caffeine can vary as in any coffee or tea, but in one teaspoon there is 68 mg of caffeine.
But don’t panic, the caffeine in matcha tea can help speed up your metabolism by 40% and regulate your blood sugar.
How to make matcha green tea?
To prepare matcha most traditionally in a bowl,
- Add a small amount of matcha (if you can one to two tablespoons with the traditional bamboo spoon called chashaku)
- Then add a small amount of hot water that is not boiling and mix until uniform consistency with the Chasen bamboo mixer.
- It will be ready when there are no lumps in the liquid or other tea in the bowl.
How to make matcha green tea latte?
Matcha latte tea.
- Try this delicious prepared drink that combines the healthy matcha and latte flavor.
Ingredients - 3/4 cup coconut milk
- 1 teaspoon matcha
- 1/4 cups water
- 1 tablespoon sweetener
Preparation.
Heat vegetable milk and water separately. - When boiling water mixes the matcha tablespoon and dissolves it very well.
- Then add the vegetable milk to the matcha water to create foam and complement each other.
- You can sweeten it with honey.
Related article: Can matcha green tea help with weight loss?
Final thoughts.
The decision on which is better, whether matcha or green tea, depends on the taste of each person as well as the purpose with which they take it.
The best thing will always be to choose what we consume based on our needs and tastes, and not get carried away by trends.
Try the one you like the most and make the most of its properties, in addition to enjoying its delicious flavor.
In general, all teas have a special flavor, but in particular, green teas have a powerful flavor that is only for the most daring.
Green tea is that food you love or hate, there is no middle ground. Although you can also take it simply for the positive benefits it will give to your body.
Remember not to abuse the consumption of any drink, and complement them with a healthy lifestyle and a balanced diet.
Related article: What is Matcha green tea latte good for?
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