How to Make Matcha Tea (Simple & Traditional Method)
Making matcha tea is quick and simple, but technique matters. When prepared correctly, matcha tea is smooth, lightly frothy, and gently earthy, not bitter or grainy.
Keter Manor Outdoor Apex Double Door Garden Storage Shed (6 x 8ft)
A durable and stylish beige and brown garden storage shed perfect for storing garden tools, equipment, bikes, and outdoor essentials. Weather-resistant, low maintenance, and ideal for any garden or allotment setup.
Vegetable Plants & Seedlings
Browse Plants
All-Purpose Compost & Soil Improvers
View Compost
Plant Feed & Fertiliser for Strong Growth
Shop Fertiliser
⭐ Recommended Products — Matcha & Matcha Essentials
Matcha is a finely ground green tea powder packed with antioxidants, gentle caffeine, and a delicate, grassy flavour — great for drinks, baking, and wellness routines.
• Ceremonial Grade Matcha Powder
Premium, vibrant matcha with smooth flavour and bright green colour — best for drinking straight as traditional matcha tea.
👉 Click here to see top options
• Culinary Grade Matcha Powder
Ideal for lattes, smoothies, baking, and cooking — slightly stronger flavour that holds up well when mixed with other ingredients.
👉 Click here to see top options
• Matcha Whisk & Bowl Set (Chasen & Chawan)
Traditional bamboo whisk and bowl to help you prepare frothy, authentic matcha the classic way — enhances texture and experience.
👉 Click here to see top options
• Matcha Scoop & Sifter Set
A handy scoop and fine sifter that help measure and remove clumps from matcha powder for a smoother finish.
👉 Click here to see top options
• Matcha Latte Cup & Frother Kit
Perfect if you prefer modern matcha lattes — includes an insulated cup and mini frother for café-style drinks at home.
👉 Click here to see top options
This guide explains how to make matcha tea step by step, using the traditional method and easy alternatives.
🍵 What You’ll Need
Ingredients:
- Matcha powder (ceremonial grade is best for tea)
- Hot water (not boiling)
Optional tools:
- Bamboo whisk (chasen)
- Small bowl or wide mug
- Fine sieve (optional)
🥄 How to Make Matcha Tea
1️⃣ Add the Matcha
Place ½–1 teaspoon of matcha powder into a bowl or wide mug.
Tip: Sifting the matcha helps prevent clumps, but it’s optional.
2️⃣ Add Hot Water
Pour in 60–70ml of hot water, ideally around 70–80°C.
Why this matters:
Boiling water can scorch matcha and make it bitter.
3️⃣ Whisk Until Smooth
Whisk briskly using a zig-zag or “M” motion until the matcha is fully dissolved and lightly frothy.
If you don’t have a bamboo whisk, you can use:
- A small metal whisk
- A milk frother
- A jar with a tight lid (shake well)
4️⃣ Taste & Adjust
Taste the matcha and adjust if needed:
- Add a little more hot water to mellow it
- Add a small pinch more matcha for a stronger flavour
Traditional matcha tea is not sweetened.
☕ Matcha Tea Strength Guide
- Usucha (thin tea):
½–1 tsp matcha + 70ml water (smooth and balanced) - Koicha (thick tea):
2 tsp matcha + 40ml water (very strong, no foam)
Beginners should start with usucha.
🌱 Tips for the Best Matcha Tea
- Use fresh, bright green matcha
- Never use boiling water
- Whisk well to avoid graininess
- Drink immediately after making
❓ Common Questions
Can I make matcha tea without a whisk?
Yes. A milk frother or shaking in a jar works well.
Does matcha tea contain caffeine?
Yes. Matcha contains natural caffeine, less than coffee but more than green tea.
Should matcha tea be sweetened?
Traditionally, no — but you can add a small amount of sweetener if preferred.
🌿 Final Thoughts
Matcha tea is simple, but precision makes all the difference. With good matcha and the right water temperature, you’ll get a smooth, calming drink every time.
Remember the golden rules:
Good matcha. Not boiling water. Whisk well.