Matcha Green Tea: Health Benefits And Teatime cake recipe

Matcha, a powdered green tea known for its vibrant green colour and distinct flavour, has captivated the taste buds of tea enthusiasts around the world. While its contemporary popularity continues to soar, matcha carries a captivating history dating back centuries and boasts an array of health benefits.

Also Read: Matcha And Coffee: How They Are Similar

Also Read: Benefits Of Matcha Green Tea And How To Make It At Home

Its history intertwines with Zen Buddhism, as a Buddhist monk named Eisai introduced matcha to Japan in the 12th century. Eisai believed in its exceptional medicinal properties and its ability to enhance focus and relaxation during meditation, leading to matcha's integration into Japanese tea ceremonies and Zen practises, embodying mindfulness, simplicity, and appreciation of beauty.

Matcha cultivation is now centred in Japan, particularly in renowned regions like Uji, Nishio, and Shizuoka. The distinctive flavour and vibrant green colour of matcha are due to Japan's unique cultivation methods. One notable technique is "shade growing," where tea plants designated for matcha production are covered or shaded for three to four weeks before harvesting to minimise direct sunlight exposure. This stimulates the production of chlorophyll and amino acids, resulting in matcha with a sweeter, smoother, and more vibrant character.

Cultural Significance Of Matcha

Matcha holds immense cultural significance in Japanese society, symbolising hospitality, harmony, and respect. Tea ceremonies, also known as "chanoyu" or "sado," are intricate rituals centred around the preparation, serving, and consumption of matcha. These ceremonies prioritise mindfulness, tranquility, and the celebration of the present moment. The host demonstrates meticulousness in preparing and presenting the matcha, while guests partake in a serene and meditative experience.

The art of matcha preparation showcases Japanese craftsmanship. It involves specialised tools, each with a specific purpose. A bamboo whisk called a "chasen" is vigorously used to whisk the matcha and hot water in a precise back-and-forth motion, creating a frothy layer on the surface. A ceramic bowl, or "chawan," is carefully chosen for both aesthetics and heat retention. The desired amount of matcha powder is measured and transferred to the chawan using a bamboo scoop known as a "chashaku." This meticulous process underscores the significance of attention to detail and the pursuit of perfection in Japanese tea culture.

Matcha And Its Health Benefits

Matcha, consumed in its powdered form, offers numerous health benefits. Some of them are:

Rich In Antioxidants

Matcha green tea surpasses steeped teas in nutrient concentration, being rich in antioxidants like catechins, which combat free radicals and protect against cellular damage. The prominent catechin, EGCG, possesses potent anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties.

Promotes Relaxed Energy

As a natural source of caffeine, matcha provides gentle energy without coffee's jitters. L-theanine, an amino acid in matcha, promotes relaxed focus and mental clarity by slowing caffeine absorption, resulting in "calm energy."

Match Is Packed With Nutrients

Matcha is also a valuable source of essential vitamins and minerals. It contains immune-boosting vitamin C, collagen-promoting vitamin A, blood pressure-regulating potassium, and iron for oxygen transport and energy production.

Improves Cognitive Function

Matcha has been associated with improved cognitive function, reduced stress, and enhanced mood. L-theanine stimulates the production of mood-regulating neurotransmitters dopamine and serotonin, leading to increased attention, better memory, and reduced anxiety. Embrace matcha's remarkable health benefits as it nourishes both the body and mind.

Matcha in cooking

Matcha is renowned not only for its vibrant colour and unique flavour but also for its versatility in cooking. This traditional Japanese ingredient has gained popularity worldwide and is now widely incorporated into various culinary creations. In cooking, matcha serves as a versatile ingredient that adds depth and complexity to both sweet and savoury dishes. Its distinctive earthy and slightly bitter taste enhances a range of recipes, including cakes, cookies, ice creams, and smoothies.

Matcha can be used as a key component in batters, glazes, and fillings, providing an appealing green hue and a delightful aroma. Beyond desserts, matcha finds its place in savoury dishes such as sauces, marinades, and seasonings, adding a nuanced flavour profile and a visually appealing touch. With its vibrant green colour, unique taste, and numerous health benefits, matcha has become a beloved ingredient in modern cooking, enabling chefs and home cooks alike to create delightful and innovative culinary experiences.

Here's a recipe for matcha green tea cake that you can make and enjoy at home:

Matcha Green Tea Cake

Ingredients

For the cake:

• 2 cups of all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons matcha green tea powder
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup of buttermilk

For the matcha frosting:

• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 teaspoons matcha green tea powder
• 2 tablespoons of milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
• In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and matcha green tea powder. Set aside.
• In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
• Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
• Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean.
• Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
• While the cakes are cooling, prepare the matcha frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and matcha green tea powder, mixing well. Add the milk and vanilla extract, and continue beating until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.
• Once the cakes have cooled, spread a layer of matcha frosting on top of one cake layer. Place the second cake layer on top, and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining matcha frosting.
• You can garnish the cake with a dusting of matcha powder, edible flowers, or sliced strawberries.
• Slice and serve the matcha green tea cake, and enjoy!

This recipe yields a delightful matcha-flavoured cake with a moist and tender crumb, complemented by the creamy and subtly bitter matcha frosting. It's sure to impress matcha enthusiasts and cake lovers alike!