Matcha 101: What It Is, Why It’s So Popular and How to Actually Enjoy It

If you’ve walked into any city cafe, scrolled through any social media app or spoken to any wellness girly lately, you’ve likely heard of matcha as the “buzz” word of the wellness world. And, as a nutritionist, this might just be one I can get behind!

Okay hear me out. Because yes, it can taste like grass. And yes, it can be expensive. But, it doesn’t need to be - and honestly, matcha has earned its popularity for a reason.

What Is Matcha?

First things first. Matcha is a powdered form of green tea leaves, traditionally prepared and served with care in Japanese culture in tea ceremonies. Despite originating in China, the Japanese have taken matcha and turned its preparation into an art form, perfecting the craft of creating a delicious drink with a wide variety of health benefits.

Today, you can find matcha almost anywhere and, somehow, its health-related superpowers have had even some of the biggest coffee lovers making the swap in their morning routine.

Why Is Matcha So Popular?

Beyond its gorgeous green colour (Hello, Instagram aesthetic), matcha boasts a number of potential health benefits to support your energy, focus, gut health and long-term wellbeing.

Starting your day with a delicious matcha can do more than put a smile on your face. Like coffee, matcha contains caffeine, which can boost your energy, focus, reaction time and memory. But unlike coffee, matcha also contains L-theanine - a compound that works with caffeine to create a calmer, longer-lasting energy without the typical crash.

Over time, regular matcha consumption has been linked to:

• Higher antioxidant intake (to help protect your cells)
• Reduced risk of some chronic diseases
• Support for liver health
• Promoting heart health
• Assisting with weight management

(Pretty impressive for a humble green powder, right?)

How To Actually Enjoy It

Now, as a self-aware coffee addict, I can’t say I’ll be giving up my daily almond latte (or two… maybe three) anytime soon.

But learning how I like my matcha has helped me actually start to enjoy it - and even crave it.

Here’s what I’ve learnt: taking time to prepare matcha properly makes all the difference in texture, consistency and flavour.

For the smoothest, creamiest matcha:

• Start by sifting the powder to remove clumps.
• Add hot water (not boiling!) and whisk with a bamboo whisk of your NH hand mixer until frothy.
• Flavour it your way - adding a little honey, vanilla or your favourite milk.

Or, skip the guesswork entirely. Nu Harvest’s Vanilla and Strawberry Matcha Latte blends are flavoured and prebiotic-packed, so all you need is a scoop and your milk of choice. Serve hot or over ice for a super easy, super smooth café-style matcha - minus the sugar or $8 price tag.

Whether you grab one to accompany your next beach walk, or make and enjoy one in the comfort of your own home, adding matcha to your weekly wellness routine may just become your new favourite self-care practice. 

To make your matcha experience even sweeter, use code COURTNEYLAYTHAM for 15% off your next Nu Harvest purchase! Enjoy x