By: Tiffany Eng, M.S., CSUN Dietetic Intern

Matcha is everywhere. This finely ground green powder can be found in almost every grocery store and local coffee shop.  Characterized by a rich, earthy, and aromatic taste, matcha green tea is a versatile flavor that can be used in a variety of different products from lattes to ice creams. It has been in the limelight for years and is still soaring in popularity among food bloggers and coffee shop goers.

Some of this popularity can be attributed to matcha’s background as a powerhouse of strong antioxidants called polyphenols. These bioactive components possess anti-inflammatory and anti-carcinogenic properties.¹ Green tea consumption has been linked to potential health benefits such as strengthened immune system and decreased risk of cardiovascular disease.²

Fun Fact! Catechin (a type of polyphenol) levels in matcha are thought to be different than levels found in other green teas. While other green teas are typically grown in direct sunlight, matcha is grown 90% in shade.³ Direct sunlight affects catechin concentration and composition in the tea leaves.² Studies have found that the catechin levels are at least 3 times higher in matcha than other green teas and may have stronger antioxidant properties. However, whether it is matcha or not, green tea is a great addition to any diet.

Matcha Green Tea Latte Recipe

Matcha green tea lattes are a delicious way to include this antioxidant powerhouse into your diet.

Servings 2 | Prep Time 10 min

Ingredients

• 2 cups almond milk
• 2 tsp matcha green tea powder
• ¼ tsp vanilla extract
• Honey or Sugar (optional: to taste)

Instructions

1. Over medium-low heat, warm the almond milk in a saucepan. Bring to a boil. Turn the heat off and add the matcha green tea powder, vanilla extract, and sugar/honey. Whisk until the matcha powder dissolves completely. If there are still clumps of matcha, use a mesh strainer to filter the latte into a cup.
2. Divide and serve in two mugs. Enjoy!

Recipe adapted from Bon Appetit.

If you are on the go and can’t make this at home, hit up Freudian Sip on campus for some matcha green tea options.

References

1. Saric, S., Notay, M., & Sivamani, R. Green Tea and Other Tea Polyphenols: Effects on Sebum Production and Acne Vulgaris.  2016; 6(4): 2. doi:10.3390/antiox6010002
2. Weiss, D. J., & Anderton, C. R. Determination of catechins in matcha green tea by micellar electrokinetic chromatography. Journal of Chromatography A. 2003; 1011(1-2): 173-180. doi:10.1016/s0021-9673(03)01133-6
3. Chacko, S. M., Thambi, P. T., Kuttan, R., & Nishigaki, I. Beneficial effects of green tea: A literature review. Chinese Medicine. 2010; 5(1): 13. doi:10.1186/1749-8546-5-13