Simple Matcha Recipe For Summer

The Pacific Northwest, whether it’s through our love of evergreens or eco-friendly policy, has always been very green.  However, recently it seems that there’s been a whole new green craze taking off in Bellevue.  Whether you’re walking down the hallways at school or observing the citizens of Bellevue go about their life, it’s almost guaranteed that you’ll see at least a few carrying cups full to the brim with bright green liquid.

Matcha, cultivated in Japan, is an earthy green powder that’s made from crushed green tea leaves.  It has a distinctly bitter taste; however sweetener can be added to get a refreshingly unique sip.  Places like Nana’s Green Tea and Café Joy have gained significant traction among Bellevue students for their delicious drinks.

“Matcha is a universal drink,” said junior Frank Ling, “You can have it hot or cold, and you can pair it with different kinds of flavor combinations.”

For students looking to find the perfect summer beverage, matcha may be something to consider.  If you’re a student looking to step up your matcha game, then this latte recipe may be the perfect fit for you.

INGREDIENTS:

-3/4 cup milk

-1 ½ teaspoons matcha powder (There are many varieties, with ceremonial grade being regarded as the most quality and culinary grade the cheapest, so depending on what you’re aiming for, you should adjust the kinds of powder used)

-4 tablespoons boiling water

-Ice cubes (optional if you want it cold)

-Fresh fruit (optional, you can use any kind of fruit you want)

-2 ½ tablespoons granulated sugar (optional if you use fruit)

DIRECTIONS:

If using fruit: chop fruit into small pieces and add it to the bottom of your glass, then combine with granulated sugar.  Then, crush the fruit and sugar together with a muddler until it resembles a puree.   If you don’t have a muddler, then a whisk should work.

Step One: add the amount of ice you want to the bottom of your glass.

Step Two: pour milk over the ice/fruit mixture and set your glass aside.

Step Three: sift matcha powder into a small bowl.  Combine with boiling water and stir with a whisk until frothy, which is usually about 30 seconds.  For most matcha drinks, people typically use a matcha bamboo whisk, but if you don’t have one on hand, then a normal whisk should work.

Step Four: pour matcha liquid over the milk.

Step Five: stir and then enjoy!

Whether you want a fruity, tropical treat for the beach, or you’re just looking to dive into the newest craze, a matcha latte is the perfect drink to try.