This might be the most frequent question I got asked since I started my matcha tea workshop in Dubai.

Brewing Matcha authentically at home involves a few essential tools and a specific process. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you prepare Matcha tea in the traditional Japanese manner:

There are a few tools you will need to get started:

• High-quality Matcha powder (for the best taste even without adding milk)
  Check this article: How to choose matcha?
• Chawan (a matcha bowl): You can use a small snack bowl Link below
• Chasen (a bamboo whisk): Choose the one has 100 bristles
• Chashaku (a bamboo tea spoon): You can get it right every time.
• A fine-mesh sieve: Optional but recommended, so you can have super smooth and foamy texture.
• A small cup: for cooling your hot water *optional
• Temperature controlled kettle: So you won't make your matcha bitter.

Follow these steps:

Step 1

Warm up your Matcha bowl

Pour some hot water into the Matcha bowl, swish it around, and then discard the water. This step will ensure that the Matcha powder doesn't cool down too quickly when mixed with hot water. Last, don't forget to dry the bowl with a clean cloth.

Step 2

Measure the Matcha powder

Using the bamboo tea scoop, measure 1.5 to 2 scoops (equivalent to 1-1.5 grams) of Matcha powder for a standard serving. Optionally, you can use a small kitchen scale for more precise measurement.

Step 3

Soak chasen (bamboo whisk)

It is not a critical step for making matcha, but you can extend the life of your bamboo brush and keep it hygiene (no one wants to see mold right?) every time you use it.

Step 4

Sift the Matcha powder

Place the fine-mesh sieve over the Matcha bowl and gently sift the Matcha powder through it. This step removes any lumps in the powder, resulting in a smoother texture later on.

Step 5

Heat the water and Cool it down

Bring water to a boil, then let it cool down to about 60-75°C. You can transfer the boiling hot water to another cup, and let it sit for 2-3  mins. The step is critical to prevent bitterness and retain the tea's delicate flavors.

Step 6

Add water to the bowl

Pour around 20-40 ml of hot water into the bowl with the sifted Matcha powder.

Step 7

Whisk the Matcha

Hold the bamboo whisk firmly with one hand and whisk the Matcha and water vigorously in a zigzag motion (like the shape of the letter "M" or "W") for about 20-60 seconds.

Extra tips:

The whisking should be done with the wrist, not the arm, to ensure a smooth and frothy texture. The goal is to create a layer of fine bubbles on the surface of the tea. Avoid touching the bottom of the bowl with the whisk to prevent it from breaking.

Now you can enjoy your matcha and savor the taste, aroma, and texture of the Matcha, ideally in a peaceful and mindful setting.

Remember that practice makes perfect, and with time, you'll become more proficient at whisking and preparing an exquisite bowl of Matcha tea at home.