My love for matcha

I fell in love with this powder during a tea ceremony I attended in Japan, the origin of the Matcha tea powder. The preparation of matcha is the focus of Japanese tea ceremonies, and it has long been associated with Zen. I believe that if preparing and sipping matcha becomes a way for you to slow down, and be in the moment, its benefits will extend far beyond the antioxidants it provides, because meditation, in any form, has a myriad of rewards. 

Matcha is rich in anti-oxidants and boosts metabolism. Just be careful as it contains caffeine so don't drink it in the afternoon or before bedtime. I believe keeping 6 hours before bedtime in mind, is a good guideline 

A couple of times a week, in the mornings,  I have my almond cappuccino or a regular coffee that I pimp with turmeric, sweetener and some plant based milk. Other days I choose tea or matcha. 

I’m very intentional and aware of giving my body what it needs and I go through some phases without coffee and replace it with Matcha. Usually it are these days that I feel a bit stressed, if I need more nourishment or when I did a good yoga practice. 

The coconut oil makes this latte thick and creamy without using dairy or heavy cream. Not only does the fat emulsify and make this latte luxurious, but it also tastes delicious and slightly sweet from the coconut oil.

THE RECIPE:

Ingredients: 

1/2 cup of hot water

1/2 cup of almond milk 

1-2 teaspoons matcha powder

1 small tablespoon coconut oil

1 tablespoon maple syrup

pinch of vanilla 

Directions:

Blend all the ingredients in a high speed blender for 45 seconds until it becomes frothy.

Anyone else? If you’re feeling worn out, stressed, or sick, try this Matcha Tea Latte instead of your morning cup of coffee and see how you feel. Yes, matcha still has caffeine, but the effects are much different. 

My kids and me on a tea ceremony in Kyoto.