Matcha vs Green Tea: The Key Differences And Benefits

Key Takeaways

• Matcha and green tea both come from the Camellia sinensis plant but differ in cultivation, processing, and benefits.
• Matcha is shade-grown and stone-ground, resulting in a vibrant green powder rich in antioxidants and caffeine.
• Green tea is usually not shade-grown and comes in various forms like loose leaves or tea bags, offering a lighter flavour and less caffeine.
• Green tea powder exists as a separate category, less expensive but also less rich in nutrients compared to matcha.
• Both matcha and green tea offer health benefits like antioxidant properties, potential cardiovascular protection, and cognitive enhancement.
• Flavour profiles vary: matcha is earthy and strong, while green tea is lighter and can be sweet or grassy.
• The choice between matcha, green tea, or green tea powder depends on personal preferences for flavour, nutritional content, and preparation style.

Matcha powder and green tea have been staples in some human cultures for close to a millennia now - and modern times have seen them both surge in popularity again around the globe.

Even though they both come from the same plant, matcha and green tea are very different beverages with completely unique flavour profiles, textures, health benefits and uses.

So, how do matcha and green tea stack up against each other? And which one might be best for you? Read on!

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What Is Matcha?

Matcha is a form of stone-ground green tea powder that comes from young green tea leaves.

The word ‘matcha’ literally means ‘powdered tea’ and has been consumed in Asia for around 900 years.

The plants that are used to make matcha are grown in the shade for three to four weeks. When harvested, both the veins and stems are removed before processing begins.

 

So, when you drink matcha, you’re simply drinking the powdered leaves with no other plant components.

Matcha is often served ‘ceremonially’ by mixing a teaspoon of powder with a cup of hot water; it’s then whisked together (usually with a bamboo whisk) until it starts to froth.

Many modern users prefer to drink the infamous ‘matcha latte’; a teaspoon of the powder is whisked together with hot water and topped with a cup of whisked milk of your choice. You can also add matcha powder to foods and desserts, such as puddings and cake.

Matcha is often a required taste, though. It’s often described as having an earthy, grassy and somewhat spinach-like flavour.

This is why many people choose to sweeten their matcha with flavoured milk, sugars, sweeteners, or cupboard spices.

What Is Green Tea?

Green tea is made from the leaves and buds of the tea plant - Camellia Sinensis.

These leaves and buds have not gone through the same oxidation and withering process that’s used to make other teas, such as black tea and oolong tea.

These unoxidized and minimally processed leaves make green tea one of the most popular drinks in China.

When green tea is made, the leaves and buds are harvested from the plant and heated up shortly after (usually with steaming or pan-firing).

They’re then dried to minimize oxidation. When regular green tea is brewed, it can be either yellow, green, or light brown and has a varied flavour profile.

Some types of green tea can taste earthy and grassy, while others can taste sweeter, like seaweed. The resulting flavour depends on the process used to dry the tea and the amount of time the tea is steeped for when made.

What Is the Difference Between Matcha and Green Tea?

Although both of these beverages come from the Camellia sinensis plant, they’re cultivated, processed and consumed quite differently.

Let’s explore some of the most significant differences between matcha and green tea below.

1.) Matcha Is Specifically ‘Shade-Grown’

Matcha is grown differently from other teas, including green tea. It’s often grown in the shade to prevent oxidation - this isn’t the case with green tea. Depending on the type of green tea you’re drinking, it may have also been heated, dried, or rolled after harvest.

2.) Matcha Has A Distinctly Different Flavour Profile To Green Tea

Due to the differences in cultivation and processing, matcha and green tea have a noticeably different flavour. For example, matcha tends to be stronger and tastes more grass-like, whereas green tea often takes on a lighter, more refreshing flavour profile.

3.) Both Are Prepared Very Differently

Traditional matcha is whisked and frothed with hot water (or now with milk as a matcha latte) to create a matcha tea whereas green tea is classically just mixed with hot water. Green tea may come as a tea bag or as loose tea leaves, whereas matcha is almost always found in powder form.

4.) Matcha Has More Caffeine Than Green Tea

Although both drinks contain caffeine, matcha has a higher caffeine content than green tea. The average cup of matcha contains between 38-176mg of caffeine, whereas a cup of green tea can contain between 20-90mg. Stone-grinding tea leaves to make matcha powder concentrate many compounds of the tea leaf - including caffeine.

How about Green Tea Powder vs Matcha?

When discussing green tea and matcha, we should also consider green tea powder as a separate entity. While both green tea powder and matcha originate from the Camellia sinensis plant, their similarities often end there, diverging in terms of cultivation, processing, and nutritional profile.

1.) Cultivation and Processing

Green tea powder is typically made from green tea leaves that have been dried and then pulverized into fine powder. Unlike matcha, these leaves are not shade-grown, nor are the stems and veins removed. This results in a powder that contains more components of the tea leaf compared to matcha, which is purely the leaf's flesh. The absence of the shade-growing process also means that green tea powder lacks the bright green hue and the higher chlorophyll content that matcha boasts.

2.) Flavor and Versatility

Powdered green tea tends to have a more bitter and astringent taste compared to matcha's smoother, creamier profile. While matcha is versatile enough to be used in lattes, smoothies, and even cooking, green tea powder is often less forgiving when it comes to culinary applications due to its stronger flavor.

3.) Nutritional Differences

Although both are rich in antioxidants, the concentration in matcha is generally higher due to the specialized growing conditions. Green tea powder, however, still offers a robust antioxidant profile and shares many of the health benefits associated with traditional green tea.

4.) Caffeine Content

While matcha is known for its higher caffeine content, green tea powder also contains a significant amount, albeit less than matcha. If you're looking to reduce your caffeine intake but still want the convenience of a powdered form, green tea powder might be a suitable alternative.

Health Benefits of Matcha

Both matcha and green tea have an abundance of purported health benefits, but are these benefits the same - and which drink is better for you?

Let’s take a look at the benefits of consuming matcha below.

High Antioxidant Profile

Matcha contains an abundance of inflammation-reducing catechins which are a group of plant compounds that are rich in antioxidants. Studies indicate that a certain group of antioxidants belonging to this family are generally much more concentrated in matcha than they are in green tea.

One animal study discovered that when mice were given matcha supplements, the effects of free radical damage were diminished, and enhanced antioxidant activity was observed.

Increased Brain Function

There’s some limited (yet exciting) evidence to suggest that matcha may improve our brain function.

For example, in a study of 23 people, researchers found that participants taking a 4g matcha supplement (either tea or a bar) experienced notable improvements in their memory, reaction time, and attention span when compared to the placebo group.

May Aid In Fighting Cancer

We already know that matcha contains plenty of healthy compounds, and some of these are indicated to potentially help interfere with cancer cells.

A series of test tube studies discovered that the levels of EGCG in matcha were able to kill off prostate cancer cells. Other studies have found that the EGCG in matcha may also be effective at fighting against lung, skin, and liver cancer.

It’s important to note that test tube studies and animal studies are limited in their scope for how this may work in the human body and many more clinical studies are needed before anything definitive can be said.

Health Benefits of Green Tea

So, how do the health benefits of green tea compare to matcha? Let’s find out.

May Help Prevent Cardiovascular Disease

Evidence suggests that green tea may have some strong preventative effects when it comes to combating cardiovascular disease.

This study indicated that the catechins present in green tea may help to protect LDL particles from oxidizing, which is one risk factor for heart disease. as we know from earlier, matcha is also extremely rich in a variety of catechins so it isn’t unreasonable to think that it may possess some of the same benefits here.

May Reduce Overall Mortality

Green tea contains compounds that may help fight against heart disease and even cancer, so it’s no surprise that drinking green tea may also reduce overall mortality.

One large and long-term study examined 40,530 Japanese adults over 11 years. The study found that the adults drinking five or more cups of green tea a day were less likely to die from almost all highlighted mortality causes during the course of the study.

It’s important to note that this is a very ambitious study with lots of complex factors to consider so these kinds of results can only be indicative at best.

May Improve Skin Health

The benefits of green tea for skin health are quite numerous and have been a big reason for its consumption and topical use on the skin for many years.

With many different compounds that have the potential to help with acne, inflammation, oily skin and ageing effects - green tea is a favourite for many different skin issues.

Coffee Vs. Matcha Tea: How Do They Compare?

Many loyal coffee drinkers are swapping their morning pick-me-up for matcha. But why?

Just half a teaspoon of quality matcha contains 35 mg of caffeine. Matcha also contains L-theanine, an amino acid that can change the effects of caffeine and promote a more sustained level of energy and alertness throughout the day.

In other words, you won’t get that mid-morning caffeine crash as you do with coffee (although, matcha may make you need to poop mid-morning much like coffee) .

Although the average serving of coffee contains significantly more caffeine (180mg, to be precise), it doesn’t contain L-theanine, so you won’t get that synergistic effect of sustained energy and alertness like you would with matcha.

What Does Matcha Taste Like in General?

If you've been around the modern cafe scene, you've likely come across matcha in one form or another. When prepared traditionally as a tea, the process involves adding hot water to the finely stone-ground ceremonial matcha powder, followed by brisk whisking with a bamboo utensil. This method, often part of a revered tea ceremony, yields what is known as matcha tea, a beverage steeped in cultural tradition and modern-day popularity alike.

The core taste profile of matcha remains consistent regardless of the preparation method. When sipped, an earthy resonance blends seamlessly with grassy notes, while a subtle nutty undertone completes this natural trilogy of flavours. If you’re not mixing your matcha with other ingredients, this flavour will be more pronounced, and your matcha will taste notably more vegetal. 

Matcha is an acquired taste for most as it’s quite strong and unique, however, people who like matcha LOVE the flavour. If you’ve ever drunk green tea, you’ll have an idea of what these vegetal, grassy tones taste like - it’s just concentrated and more intense.

Each brand and type of matcha holds a slightly different taste due to factors such as its origin, purity, and overall quality. If you’ve been put off by the flavour before - try another brand before you walk away from it completely. The taste of matcha is indeed an acquired one; its distinct and strong flavour is a love affair for some, while others might need a few tastings to fully appreciate its unique character.

What Does Matcha Latte Taste Like?

Another popular and more modern way to prepare matcha is to make it into a latte by swapping the majority of your hot water with milk to create a creamy, velvety drink.

If you’re a cafe goer or frequent your local Starbucks, you’ve probably seen these on the menu as a matcha latte or matcha milk tea - but take it from me, you can make a better one at home!

However you make your matcha, its main flavour profile stays the same - you can expect to taste rich tones of earthiness, grassiness, and even nuttiness. But the infusion of milk and syrups tempers the vegetal taste of matcha, rendering a smoother and more mellow flavour. 

This is particularly appealing to those who find the boldness of pure matcha a tad overwhelming. The latte variant still retains the earthy, grassy notes but in a softer, more harmonious manner.

Adding Syrups And Flavourings

As with any hot drink, you can experiment with different flavours and make the end-result taste different from its original form.

For example, adding flavoured syrups or even spices such as cinnamon to your drink can balance out some of the earthiness and bitter taste and add some sweetness to your drink. Maple syrup, honey and vanilla are also popular additions to matcha.

Adding Milk

Matcha tastes the most vegetal when it's made with just hot water. Simply swapping most of your water for milk, and making a matcha latte instead, can significantly change the taste of your matcha.

If you don’t want to be reliant on syrups or flavourings, you could even use sweetened vegan milk for extra flavour or add a dash of syrup or spice with your milk to change the taste even more.

Iced matcha lattes also have a different flavour profile than hot matcha as the ice changes the consistency of the powder and mixes with it in a different way.

Simple Matcha Recipes

The multifaceted nature of matcha extends beyond the traditional tea and latte, offering a canvas for culinary creativity. Here are a couple of simple yet delightful recipes to enrich your matcha experience.

1. Matcha Smoothie Bowl: Kickstart your morning with a nutritious Matcha Smoothie Bowl. Blend a teaspoon of high quality matcha powder with a banana, a handful of spinach, half an avocado, and a cup of almond milk until smooth. Pour into a bowl and adorn with your favourite fruits, nuts, and seeds.
2. Matcha Pancakes: Infuse your morning pancakes with the goodness of matcha. Just add two teaspoons of matcha powder to your regular pancake batter. Cook as usual and enjoy with a drizzle of maple syrup and fresh berries.
3. Matcha Energy Bites: For a quick energy boost, try Matcha Energy Bites. Mix a tablespoon of matcha with a cup of oats, half a cup of almond butter, a quarter cup of honey, and a sprinkle of chia seeds. Shape into balls and refrigerate for a healthy on-the-go snack.
4. Iced Matcha Lemonade: A refreshing concoction, Iced Matcha Lemonade is perfect for a sunny afternoon. Whisk 1 teaspoon of matcha with a cup of water, add the juice of one lemon, a spoonful of honey, and ice. Stir well and relish the tangy, earthy refreshment.

These recipes not only highlight the unique flavor of matcha but also its potential to blend well with various ingredients. If you've never tried matcha or perhaps found that matcha is too bitter for you, trying these recipes may be a delightful way to start. Just play around in the kitchen, and have fun!

Benefits of Using a Matcha Whisk

Using a matcha whisk is crucial for unlocking the full potential of matcha tea, enhancing its flavour, texture, and overall drinking experience. The design of the chasen is specifically tailored to aerate the matcha, creating a creamy froth that is impossible to achieve with ordinary kitchen tools. This frothing not only improves the mouthfeel but also helps to release the intricate flavours and aromas of the matcha, allowing the subtle nuances of the tea to shine through. A properly whisked ceremonial matcha becomes a vibrant, smooth concoction that is both a pleasure to drink and beneficial for health, packed with antioxidants.

Moreover, the act of whisking matcha with a chasen can be a meditative practice, emphasizing mindfulness and the enjoyment of the preparation process. The rhythmic motion of whisking can help reduce stress and increase mental clarity, making the preparation of matcha with a traditional bamboo whisk an enriching experience beyond just taste. Regular use of a chasen also ensures that matcha is prepared as intended by tea masters of old, maintaining the cultural integrity and traditional practices that have been cherished for centuries.

Types of Traditional Matcha Whisks (Chasen)

Matcha whisks, or chasen, come in various forms, each designed to cater to different preferences and styles of preparing matcha tea. Understanding the differences can help you choose the right bamboo whisk to enhance your matcha experience.

• Kazuho Chasen: This type of whisk is designed for general use and is ideal for beginners. It typically features around 80 tines, which makes it versatile for various types of matcha, from thick to thin.
• Araho Chasen: Preferred for preparing thinner matcha (usucha), the Araho has more tines (about 100 or more), which helps create a quicker, finer froth. This type is perfect for those who enjoy a lighter and smoother matcha.
• Kurochiku Chasen: Made from black bamboo, this whisk is not only beautiful but also robust, offering a unique aesthetic to the tea preparation process. It's often used in special tea ceremonies and is valued for its durability and elegant appearance.
• Shichiku Chasen: Similar in use to the Kazuho but made from a different type of bamboo that provides a distinct flexibility and color, the Shichiku is favored by experienced practitioners for its ability to create an exceptionally smooth froth.

How to Use a Matcha Whisk

Using a matcha whisk correctly is essential for preparing the perfect cup of matcha tea. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to achieve that iconic frothy texture, along with tips for maintaining your whisk.

Preparation:

• Begin by sifting your Japanese matcha powder into a bowl to remove any clumps. This ensures a smoother texture in your tea.
• Add warm water (not boiling hot water) to the matcha powder. The ideal temperature is around 175°F (80°C).

Whisking:

• Hold the whisk with one hand and use a quick, back-and-forth motion from the wrist to whisk the tea. Avoid circular stirring; the goal is to agitate the water and powder mixture briskly.
• Whisk until the surface of the matcha becomes frothy and there are no visible clumps of powder. This usually takes about 15-30 seconds.
• Cleaning and Maintenance:
  • Rinse the whisk under cold water immediately after use. Let the whisk air dry completely before storing it to prevent mold.
  • Store the whisk on a whisk holder (kusenaoshi) to help maintain its shape and prolong its life.

Tips:

• Never use soap on your chasen as it can damage the delicate bamboo tines.
• Periodically soak the whisk in warm water to soften the tines and prevent them from breaking.

By following these steps, you'll ensure that your matcha tea is deliciously smooth and frothy, and your whisk stays in great condition for future use.

Other Matcha Accessories You Need:

While the matcha whisk (chasen) is certainly the star player, there are a few other recommended traditional tools that can enhance your matcha experience:

• Matcha Bowl (Chawan): This wide, shallow bowl is specifically designed for whisking matcha. Its wide rim allows for optimal whisking movement, while the thick ceramic walls help retain heat, keeping your matcha warm and enjoyable.
• Matcha Spoon (Chashaku): This small bamboo spoon is used to scoop the perfect amount of matcha powder from your container. A traditional chashaku holds around 1/2 teaspoon (about 2 grams) of matcha, ideal for a single serving.
• Matcha Strainer (Furui): This fine-mesh sieve helps remove any clumps from your matcha powder before whisking. A smooth, clump-free matcha powder is essential for achieving a frothy consistency.
• Matcha Caddy (Natsume): This airtight container is ideal for storing your matcha powder. Made from ceramic or tin, a natsume protects matcha from light, moisture, and air, preserving its freshness and delicate flavour.
• Whisk Holder (Kusenaoshi): This simple yet functional stand helps your chasen retain its shape after use. By allowing the whisk bristles to air dry properly, a kusenaoshi prevents mold growth and extends the lifespan of your valuable tool.

Investing in these additional accessories demonstrates a commitment to the traditional matcha experience. They not only elevate the aesthetics of your tea ceremony but also ensure optimal functionality for preparing the perfect cup of matcha.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Is matcha just powdered green tea?

No, matcha isn't simply powdered green tea. While both originate from the Camellia sinensis plant, the key difference lies in the farming techniques. Matcha plants are covered from direct sunlight for about 20–30 days before harvest, boosting amino acid levels and giving the plant a darker green hue. This process is unique to matcha production and contributes to its distinct flavour and nutritional profile.

Q2: Is it okay to drink Matcha green tea every day?

Yes, it's generally safe to consume matcha daily, but it's essential to be mindful of the quantity. Matcha is rich in polyphenols and amino acids, which can be beneficial for health when consumed in moderation. However, due to its higher caffeine content compared to regular green tea, overconsumption could lead to restlessness or sleep issues.

Q3: Is matcha better than green tea for weight loss?

While both may be able to support weight loss efforts due to their metabolic-boosting properties, matcha has a slight edge because it is more concentrated in epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), a catechin known to boost metabolism. However, it's important to note that drinking either beverage alone won't result in significant weight loss; it should be part of a balanced diet and exercise regimen.

Q4: What is matcha taste similar to?

Matcha carries a distinctive flavour, reminiscent of a highly concentrated green tea but with a character all its own. The unique processing and preparation of the whole leaf into a powdered form lend matcha its bold flavour profile, which stands apart from other common beverages.

Q5: Does matcha just taste like green tea?

While originating from the same plant, the experience of sipping matcha is often described as more intense and complex compared to the milder, more delicate nature of regular green tea. The special shading process of the tea plants before harvest enhances the chlorophyll and amino acid content in matcha, contributing to its characteristic flavour.

Q6: Does matcha taste like coffee?

Matcha and coffee diverge significantly in taste; while coffee has a bold, sometimes acidic or bitter profile, matcha leans towards an earthy, vegetal taste with a sweet undertone, devoid of the bitterness typically associated with coffee.

Q7: Is matcha latte sweet or bitter?

A matcha latte tends to have a smoother and creamier taste compared to pure matcha due to the addition of milk. The inherent bitterness of matcha can be tempered by the milk and further mellowed if sweeteners or flavoured syrups are added. The level of sweetness or bitterness in a matcha latte can be adjusted according to personal preference by experimenting with different types of milk and sweeteners.

Q8. Do you really need a matcha whisk?

For the best froth and flavour, yes! A matcha whisk helps aerate the matcha, creating a smooth and delicious cup.

Q9. What can I use if I don't have a matcha whisk?

A milk frother or a shaker bottle can work in a pinch, but they won't create the same froth.

Q10. Can I use a fork instead of a matcha whisk?

Not ideal. A fork won't break up clumps or properly aerate the matcha.

Q11. Is a matcha whisk holder necessary?

No, but it helps your whisk dry properly and maintain its shape, extending its lifespan.

The Bottom Line

Whether you’re drinking matcha or green tea, there’s no doubt about it - you’ll be doing something good for your body (just don’t drink too much!)

In fact, most of the benefits we discussed above that apply to green tea actually apply to matcha too - and vice versa. For all of their differences, they do come from the same leaf and share many of the same properties and benefits.

If you’re still wondering which one is best for you - the only advice at this point is to try them both and see which one you like best! They’re both loaded with flavour, antioxidants and other benefits that could improve your health and keep you feeling alert - go with the one you enjoy most.

Finally - this video below will give you an excellent visual breakdown of some of the key points that we’ve discussed in this article!