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A Green Wonder: Discovering the World of Matcha

Matcha has taken the modern wellness world by storm, but this vibrant green powder has roots that go deep - both into the earth and into centuries of culture and tradition. At Yugen, we’re fascinated by ingredients that are not only bursting with flavor but also rich in history and functionality. Let’s dive into the mindful magic of matcha.

What Is Matcha?

Matcha is a powdered green tea made from shade-grown tea leaves called tencha. Unlike other green teas where you steep and discard the leaves, matcha allows you to consume the whole leaf - meaning you get all the goodness packed inside. Traditionally stone-ground into a fine powder, matcha has been cherished in Japanese tea ceremonies for over 800 years.

Originally introduced from China to Japan by Buddhist monks, matcha became an integral part of Zen meditation practices. Its calming yet energizing properties made it the perfect companion for focus and presence.

How to Recognize Quality Matcha?

Not all matcha is created equal. Here's how to spot the good stuff:

Color: Vibrant, bright green - not dull or yellowish.
Texture: Fine like baby powder, never gritty.
Smell: Fresh, grassy, and slightly sweet.
Taste: Smooth and umami-rich, with a natural sweetness and very little bitterness.

High-grade matcha (like ceremonial grade) is made from the youngest tea leaves and is typically used in traditional preparations. Culinary grade is great for lattes, baking - and yes, even kombucha!

Using Matcha at Home

There’s something meditative about whisking up a cup of matcha. Simply sift 1-2 grams into a bowl, add a splash of hot water (not boiling!), and whisk with a bamboo chasen until frothy. But don’t stop there:

Add it to smoothies for an earthy energy boost
Stir into your favorite plant-based milk for a cozy latte
Sprinkle into overnight oats or pancake batter for a green morning

Matcha is also amazing cold - perfect for spring and summer sips.

Matcha in Kombucha?

You bet. Matcha adds a grounding, grassy depth to kombucha's natural tang. It plays nicely with citrus and floral notes, creating a layered drinking experience that’s refreshing, complex, and oh-so-functional.

The process is simple. Whisk up a small amount of matcha in hot water and mix it with our kombucha. You’ll see the colors dance and swirl in front of your eyes. Do you want it greener, mix in more. If not, drink away.

At Yugen, we love pairing matcha with ingredients that brighten its profile. Our personal favorite Yugen flavors that pair beautifully with matcha are Passionfruit Elderflower, Ginger Lemon, Pineapple Chile and Mango Turmeric. But why don’t you test it for yourselves and let us know what you think.

Maybe you’ll see a matcha-inspired Yugen flavor soon… who knows?

Functional Benefits of Matcha

Matcha isn’t just tasty - it’s also a powerhouse of wellness:

L-Theanine: Promotes calm focus and smooth energy (without the jitters!)
Antioxidants: Especially catechins, which support cellular health
Chlorophyll: A natural detoxifier
Vitamins & Minerals: Like vitamin C, selenium, chromium, and zinc

Matcha offers a more sustained energy lift than coffee, making it a favorite among athletes, creatives, and anyone who wants to feel good while getting things done.

So next time you're sipping a Yugen or whisking your morning matcha, take a moment to appreciate the ritual, the roots, and the richness in every green swirl.

Matcha brands who used our kombucha

In case you wonder where to get great Matcha, these are some brands who mixed our kombucha with their matcha. So you know it is quality. All of them offer high grade matcha that will satisfy your green cravings.