I’ve Been Testing Matcha Powders for Over a Year. These Are the Best Ones to Buy
Whether you want to brew matcha the traditional way or whip up a modern latte every morning, you’ll need a few items on hand.
Whip
Having a whisk is especially important when preparing matcha. This helps mix your powder into the warm water, ensuring there are no lumps. You can choose between a traditional whisk like this (also called Chasen) or a electric.
Matcha bowl
You don’t have to buy a dedicated matcha bowl, but as a daily matcha drinker, it’s a must for me. They are an ideal size for whisking matcha with a traditional whisk and an electric whisk, and the rim allows you to pour the matcha into your cup. It is the one I use.
Electric kettle
“Water temperature is crucial,” says Nagano. “The taste of matcha is primarily determined by one, theanine (umami/sweetness), two, catechins (astringency) and three, caffeine (bitterness).”
He further explains that catechins and caffeine in drinks increase as the temperature rises above 80 degrees Celsius (176 degrees Fahrenheit). This is why your matcha powder never comes into contact with water above this temperature. This is why we recommend using a temperature controlled electric kettlewhich allows you to select the exact temperature needed.
“To enjoy strong umami/sweetness with minimal astringency and bitterness, avoid water hotter than 80 degrees Celsius (176 degrees Fahrenheit),” says Nagano. “The lower the temperature, the sweeter and more umami the matcha is, but below about 70 degrees Celsius (158 degrees Fahrenheit), the foam becomes poor, diminishing the indulgence aspect of the foam.”
Because of this delicate balance, Nagano says a temperature range between 70 and 80 degrees Celsius (158 and 176 degrees Fahrenheit) is ideal for matcha. I recently tested 14 electric kettles to find my favorites.
Sieve
You don’t need a fancy sieve to get the job done.
Like the matcha bowl, it’s not a must-have in itself, but it is preferable. Running your matcha through a handheld sieve helps remove lumps and prepares it for whisking. You can find many affordable options online that can also be used in baking, like this one. the one I currently use.
Milk frother
Milk froth can help enhance the flavor of your matcha.
If you are planning to make matcha latte, a milk frother will help you. Here is our list of best milk frothers. Pro Tip: If You Choose the pocket oneyou can also use it to whisk your matcha powder.
Many brands on our matcha list also offer complete matcha starter packs, including those that have traditional whisks And electric whisks. They have everything you’ll need to start making matcha at home (plus the electric kettle).
