Aprikalife Matcha Green Tea Powder Review

Matcha Green Tea Powder: A Buying Guide

Matcha green tea powder is a versatile ingredient used for various culinary purposes, from lattes to baked goods. When selecting the right matcha powder for your needs, there are a few important product features to consider.

Origin

Look for products that have been sourced from Japan or at least from countries with a long history of producing high-quality tea. Japan is considered the gold standard for matcha, as the country has the ideal climate and environment for cultivating it. It is also worth noting that matcha from other countries likely won’t have the same rich flavor and vibrant color as Japanese matcha.

Processing Method

Matcha is usually processed either by stone-grinding or machine-grinding. Stone-grinding is slow and laborious, resulting in higher-grade matcha with greater richness and flavor complexity. Machine-grinding, on the other hand, is faster and more efficient but generally produces lower-grade matcha.

Grading

Matcha green tea powder is typically divided into three grades: ceremonial, culinary, and blending. Ceremonial grade matcha is the highest quality and best suited for traditional Japanese tea ceremonies or drinking as a hot beverage. Culinary-grade matcha can be used for cooking and baking, while blending grade is the lowest quality and most suitable for adding color and flavor to other dishes.

Color

When selecting matcha green tea powder, pay attention to the color of the powder itself—pure Japanese matcha should be a vivid jade green without any hints of yellow or brown. If you notice any discoloration in the powder, it may have been adulterated with cheaper ingredients such as sugar or exposed to light during transit or storage, affecting its quality. 

Aroma

Matcha should have an inviting aroma when opened. It is grassy and sweet, but not too overpowering when smelled directly from the bag or tin. A good quality matcha should retain its aromatic character even when brewed into a cup of tea – lingering slightly in the background but never becoming too strong or overwhelming. 

Texture

Matcha teas should have a finely milled texture with no lumps present. This ensures that no gritty particles end up in your cup when brewed, leaving only a satisfyingly smooth texture. Steer clear of coarse powdered textures as they could contain unground bits in them, making for a less-than-desirable experience when drinking matcha beverages.