Over the past couple of years, it seems like everyone has been drinking matcha, whether for the aesthetic, health benefits, or taste, one is bound to encounter this green-tinted tea. This drink has rapidly gained popularity on the Internet, appealing to both millennials and Gen Z. Not only is its color very distinct and different, but it has a unique taste accompanied by many health benefits.
So, what is matcha exactly? To start, matcha originates from China during the Tang Dynasty in the 7th to 10th centuries. Later, it made its way to Japan through Zen Buddhism, where it is now a staple throughout the country. Aside from the milky green drinks one is used to seeing, matcha is a green tea in powdered form. The process begins with the shaded-grown tea leaves called “tencha,” which are cultivated by blocking direct sunlight for a few weeks before harvesting. This process increases amino acids and chlorophyll while reducing the bitterness. Once the leaves are harvested, they are steamed and dried to preserve their color and nutrients. Once the stems and veins are removed from the dried leaves, they are then ground into a powder.
Matcha has many benefits that aid in increasing energy and enhancing health. Evanee Sanchez (10) mentions how whenever she drinks matcha, she “feels a boost of energy and awakeness.” The increased energy comes from the combination of caffeine and the amino acid L-theanine. This acid offsets the jitters that accompany caffeine and promotes a relaxed and calm energy boost. In addition, the health benefits of matcha are significant and are a part of the reason it has become popular. It is rich in antioxidants, boosts metabolism, improves gut health, makes the skin healthy, has anti-inflammatory properties, and enhances brain function. All these benefits combined make this drink a go-to choice in the health and wellness world. However, additions such as sugar, syrup, and cream can easily make this drink unhealthy, so it’s important to consume it in moderation.
Matcha lattes gained immense traction on social media due to their iconic green color. Its appealing appearance attracts younger generations and incites people to share their drink on social media. Not only is the color of the tea distinctive, its unique taste separates it from all other drinks. Yeji Cho (10) shares her opinions on matcha, saying “it tastes earthy and green and is the perfect combination of bitter and sweet.” On the other hand, the taste of the tea definitely depends on the quality of the matcha, the way it is prepared, and other sweeteners and cream added. In general, most people can agree that it has a grassy and natural taste with hints of sweetness and a lingering taste of umami.
Overall, matcha’s increased popularity over the years is due to a combination of factors. Its intricate process of the tea leaves, interesting origin, and distinguishable color make it stand out from other drinks. Local cafes are a great location to try matcha and indulge in this popular drink. Some local places near Yorba Linda to get matcha include Kaffeine Alley, Bodhi Leaf Coffee Traders, and MADE Coffee. These cafes let customers customize their matcha and also provide a variety of drinks and food. The health benefits, taste, and color of matcha are all reasons it has become a popular choice for many.
