Matcha, celebrated for its vibrant green color, rich grassy aroma, and numerous health benefits, has become synonymous with the Japanese tea ceremony.

Among the various types of matcha in Japan, the most renowned and authentic is found in Uji, just a twenty-minute tram ride southeast of Kyoto.

Many people hold a special affinity for matcha due to its ability to enhance mental alertness, maintain composure, and promote a calm, meditative state. Ever wondered why the caffeine content in matcha varies? Like other teas, matcha contains caffeine. Half a teaspoon of matcha powder contains about 35 milligrams of caffeine, slightly higher than regular green tea but still lower than coffee.

While both coffee and matcha contain caffeine, their effects on energy levels and mental clarity differ. Coffee can lead to energy crashes, nervousness, and anxiety, whereas matcha can enhance cognitive function without side effects, thanks to its catechins and L-theanine content.

So, how is a cup of matcha made? The process begins with tencha, steamed and dried tea leaves, which are ground to create matcha. Stored dry, the tencha is taken out when making matcha and ground into powder using a stone mill. The resulting matcha powder has particle diameters ranging from 2 to 20 micrometers, with the grinding speed crucial to maintaining quality.

Choosing a stone mill is essential as it conducts heat well without compromising the quality of the tea powder. Despite its weight, a single hand can easily operate the mill. After grinding, the powder is collected using a small brush and sifted to remove larger particles, ensuring a smooth texture.

This hand-ground matcha is a prerequisite for the traditional Japanese tea ceremony, where it is freshly ground on-site. Now, it's time to prepare the tea. The essential items include a tea bowl and a bamboo tea whisk.

Using a small scoop, add about two scoops of matcha powder to the tea bowl and pour in 80-degree Celsius water, approximately 60 ml. Choosing a tea bowl with a wide mouth and deep waist is common.

Press the bamboo tea whisk into the mixture and rapidly whisk in a W or M pattern to create a rich froth, taking around 20-30 seconds. After whisking, use the bamboo tea whisk to smooth out the surface of the foam. Now, you can savor and delight in the prepared tea.