The Multi-tasking Matcha

Everyone has them.  Whether they are in your head or written down somewhere.  The sometimes, well, mostly, exasperating "to do" list. That never-ending account of actions you must take to keep things humming. And, as soon as you delete one item off the record, another ten pop into its place.  Been there?  I think we all have.

Meet Matcha. Here is a multi-tasker that I envy.  He or she does so much in a day, it is marveling. Matcha is a powdered green tea from Japan that delivers greater health benefits than even brewed tea. Brewed tea is great for you.  That is well established, but studies show Matcha powder is even superior to brewed tea.  This is so because the green tea nutrients, which are many, stay locked in the leaf, when making Matcha.  Some of these are lost with brewed tea during the steeping process.

More Considerations 

So, why else should we consider incorporating this bright green, multi-tasking powder into our life? There are multiple reasons:

Matcha cleans house. The high chlorophyll contained in the leaves is a known purifyer of harmful elements like heavy metals and chemical toxins.

Matcha fuels your metabolism.  According to some studies, it makes you a fat burner, whether you like it or not. It increases metabolism in individuals to help maintain your weight.

Matcha is an antioxidant workhorse.  Matcha is rated at 1300 according to the ORAC scale (Oxygen Radical Absorbence Capacity, which is the scale to measure the antioxidant level of foods). This is a high number considering the antioxidant-rich pomegranate is 131.  The antioxidants like EGCg as well as the amino acids, high chlorophyll levels and vitamins A, C and E in Matcha have been linked to longevity, prevention of cancer and other diseases.  These also play a big role in its detoxification and mood enhancement capabilities.

Matcha is an aide to your oral health. The amino acid, catechin, in Matcha has antibacterial properties that can protect your tooth enamel and also counteract the effects of germs and bacteria in your mouth.

Matcha increases your energy and concentration.  The energizing properties of Matcha is largely due to its combination of nutrients. Japanese Samarui drank it before battle, and Buddhist monks drink it to assist in meditation creating an alert calmness.  Matcha drinkers typically do not experience the usual side-effects of stimulants such as nervousness and hypertension.  Many find it to be a good stable source of energy.

The Taste

Much like green tea, many call the flavor of Matcha "grassy." Others find the taste a bit bitter.  Because of this, in Japan, Matcha is many times served with a sweet. Others see it as serving as the fifth taste, or umami or savory taste..  This is especially growing among respected chefs and home cooks that use Matcha in this way when creating their dishes.
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How to Use Matcha

You can find Matcha used in the preparation of lattes, iced drinks, milkshakes and smoothies. It has also been incorporated into alcoholic beverages such as liqueurs and many baked sweets and desserts.

But, you can always take the traditional route and sip Matcha by preparing it in a ceramic tea bowl and whisking the tea and water into a frothy beverage using a bamboo whisk.

Need more ideas?  Try these:

• Blend it into organic Greek yogurt with berries and honey
• Whip it into a frosting or topping for a healthy dessert
• Sprinkle it on the end of savory dishes much like salt 

And, you could even try some of these recipes:

• Pasta with Matcha, zucchini, raisins and pistachios, perhaps?
• Or, in the mood for a latte? 
• Maybe even a hot chocolate to warm up on a cold winter day?

Have you tried Matcha yet?  What did you think? Let us know in the comments!

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