At The Matcha Lab, we get asked a ton of questions about matcha (duh)—how to use it, store it, and maximize its benefits. So, we decided to round up the most frequently asked questions into one handy guide to help you master your matcha game.
Let’s get into it!
1. How Many Servings Does Your 50g Bag Give?
It really depends on how much matcha you use and what you’re using it for! If you're using one teaspoon per serving for your daily matcha latte, a 50g bag should last you about a month, assuming you’re having a cup a day.
2. What Does 'Ceremonial Grade' Mean?
Ceremonial grade matcha is the highest quality of matcha, traditionally used in Japanese tea ceremonies. It’s made from the youngest tea leaves, ground to an ultra-fine powder, and is intended to be enjoyed on its own, either as a hot or iced tea. It has a smoother, more refined taste, perfect for drinking straight with water. If you're making matcha lattes, it's an excellent choice, though you can use culinary grade matcha as well for other recipes.
3. What’s the Best Way to Store Matcha?
Matcha is extremely sensitive to light, heat, and oxygen—three things that will diminish its quality quickly. To preserve its vibrant color, fresh taste, and nutritional benefits, store your matcha in the fridge in an airtight container. This will help ensure your matcha stays fresher for longer!
4. I Don’t Want to Keep It in the Bag—Can I Store It in a Glass Jar?
Definitely not! Matcha is incredibly sensitive to light, so storing it in a glass jar will expose it to direct light and cause oxidation. This results in the matcha losing its vivid color, nutrients, and taste. Always store your matcha in an opaque, airtight container that keeps out both light and air.
5. Why Can’t I Use Boiling Water to Make My Matcha?
Matcha is delicate, and using boiling water can actually "burn" the powder, leading to a bitter taste and duller color. To get that smooth, slightly sweet flavor matcha is known for, you should use water that’s between 60 - 70°C (140 - 158°F). If you don’t have a thermometer, simply let the boiling water sit for a minute or two before whisking in your matcha.
6. What Makes Matcha Different from Regular Green Tea?
Matcha is made from shade-grown tea leaves that are finely ground into a powder, allowing you to consume the entire leaf rather than just steeping it in water. This means you get a higher concentration of nutrients, antioxidants, and caffeine compared to regular green tea. It’s like green tea, but supercharged!
7. Does Matcha Contain Caffeine?
Yes, matcha does contain caffeine, but it’s different from the kind of energy you get from coffee. Matcha contains about half the amount of caffeine compared to a cup of coffee, but it also has L-theanine—an amino acid that helps to release caffeine slowly into your system. This gives you a steady energy boost without the jitters or the sudden crash that often comes with coffee.
8. How Should I Whisk Matcha for a Frothy Consistency?
To get that beautiful froth on top of your matcha, a bamboo whisk (also known as a chasen) works best. The trick is to whisk in a quick “M” or “W” motion, rather than circular stirring, until the matcha is nicely aerated and you see a foamy layer. No bamboo whisk? No problem—a handheld electric frother can also do the trick, especially for matcha lattes!
9. Can Matcha Go Bad?
Yes, matcha can lose its freshness over time, especially if not stored properly. As we mentioned, keeping it away from light, heat, and air is crucial. Once opened, we recommend using your matcha within 1-2 months for the best flavor and maximum nutrients. Unopened matcha can stay fresh for up to a year if stored well, but once it’s open, time is of the essence.
10. Is Matcha Good for Focus?
Absolutely! Matcha contains L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes calm and focus, without the jitteriness often experienced from coffee. This, combined with the natural caffeine found in matcha, helps boost concentration, productivity, and mental clarity—perfect for those long workdays or study sessions.
Bonus Tip: Why Choose Matcha?
Not only is matcha packed with antioxidants, but it also offers a smoother energy boost compared to coffee. No jitters, no midday crash—just clean, focused energy. Plus, it supports everything from improved digestion to clearer skin. It’s a powerhouse superfood that truly lives up to the hype!
Matcha can seem intimidating at first, but once you get the hang of it, it becomes such a joy to prepare and enjoy. Whether you’re new to matcha or a seasoned sipper, we hope these FAQs help you get the most out of your matcha experience!
Have more questions? Feel free to reach out to us anytime, or check out our organic, ceremonial grade matcha here to get started on your journey to better energy, focus, and overall wellness!
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