If you’re wanting to spice up your morning routine, making a lovely matcha latte is a good place to start. However, finding the best matcha powder can be difficult. Not any longer. We are here to help you locate the best Japanese Matcha Powder. Continue reading!
1. What is Japanese Matcha Powder?
Most people are ignorant of the history of matcha green tea powder. In reality, many people who are familiar with green tea are unaware of the facts underlying the centuries-old marvel of matcha.
Matcha was first used in tea rituals in 7th century China and was later employed in Japanese tea ceremonies in the 12th century.
What distinguishes Japanese matcha powder is the technique by which it is grown. Growers cover green tea plants weeks before harvesting so that the rest of the growing cycle takes place in the shadow. By preventing direct sunlight from reaching the tea leaves, growth slows, and chlorophyll production increases. This results in a rich green coloration of the tea leaves and an increase in the number of amino acids contained in the leaves.
Only the youngest leaf buds are harvested, dried, and processed into a fine powder, maintaining all of its nutritional value. The final result is the best Japanese matcha green tea powder.
2. Top 11 Best Japanese Matcha Powders
Are you a matcha connoisseur looking to add it to your latte? You’ve come to the correct place. Here, Janbox has developed a list of the best Japanese matcha powder. So, go exploring now!
| Japanese matcha powder | Grade | Best for |
| Ippodo Matcha | Ceremonial | Ceremonial purposes, tea preparation |
| Jade Leaf Organic Matcha | Ceremonial | Lattes, smoothies, beginners |
| Encha Ceremonial Grade Matcha Powder | Ceremonial | Smoothies, lattes, beginners |
| Blue Bottle Craft Matcha | Ceremonial | Matcha lattes, special gatherings, casual drinking |
| Matchaful Hikari Single Origin Ceremonial Matcha | Ceremonial | Premium matcha tea, ceremonial events, wellness drinks |
| Chamberlain Coffee Matcha Green Tea Powder | Culinary | Smoothies, matcha lattes, iced matcha drinks |
| Golde Pure Matcha | Ceremonial | Smoothies, matcha lattes, baked goods |
| Ito En Matcha Powder | Culinary | Baking, smoothies, matcha lattes |
| Ujido Ceremonial Blend Matcha | Culinary | Traditional tea ceremonies, premium lattes |
| Naoki Matcha Superior Ceremonial Blend | Ceremonial | Matcha tea, premium lattes, special occasions |
| Matcha Konomi Akira Ceremonial Grade Matcha | Ceremonial | Tea ceremonies, matcha lattes, luxury drinks |
2.1 Ippodo Matcha
Ippodo is one of the best-selling Japanese green tea brands. Ippodo has been around for almost 300 years. So, obviously, they know what they’re doing when it comes to matcha.
Ippodo offers a number of matcha grades that vary in price depending on your taste and demands, but we think their Kan-no-Shiro is a wonderful choice for everyday sipping. It also happens to be the most affordable matcha in this roundup.
Kenichi Kano, International Director of Ippodo Tea, describes this matcha as: “a balanced grade of matcha and a good choice for newcomers to matcha. It has a touch of astringency, but also enough umami to satisfy even the most enthusiastic matcha aficionado.”
Pros:
- Presented in a decorative tin
- Strong flavor with no sourness
- Smooth and creamy texture
Cons:
- The tin is smaller, offering less matcha than other choices
2.2 Jade Leaf Organic Matcha
Whether enjoyed hot or cold, this matcha from Uji and Kagoshima blends well with milk or non-dairy alternatives, enhancing the smooth, sweet, and crisp flavors of the tea. The matcha’s best expression is found in lattes. If you want a matcha that’s perfect for your morning latte, this is the one to go for.
Pros:
- Genuine ceremonial grade
- Soft and refined taste
- Certified organic by usda
- deep umami flavor
- Flexible applications & buying options
Cons:
- Packaging issues from time to time
- Price variations
- Not the most refined grind
2.3 Encha Ceremonial Grade Matcha Powder
Encha Ceremonial Grade Matcha Powder adds a delicate touch to drinks like cocktails, with a subtle bitterness on the nose and a strong, recognizable matcha flavor. In baked goods, the green tea taste is particularly noticeable. With its fine texture, this Japanese matcha powder is easily incorporated into any liquid or batter, making it an incredibly versatile ingredient that’s suitable for a wide range of uses, all with minimal effort.
Pros:
- Vibrant green hue
- Smooth, creamy consistency
- Ideal for ceremonial purposes
- Premium packaging quality
- Ethically sourced and environmentally friendly
Cons:
- Affordable pricing
- Bold flavor profile
- Limited stock availability
>>> Read more: The best 10 places to buy Matcha from Japan – Janbox
2.4. Blue Bottle Craft Matcha
Originating from Uji, Japan, Blue Bottle Craft Matcha benefits from the region’s exceptional soil and high-altitude climate, which have made it one of the world’s most respected areas for green tea production. The powder has a profound, balanced flavor with nutty hints and a slight sesame undertone, which enhances its rich presence in drinks and desserts.
The flavor of Blue Bottle’s matcha is impressively balanced, offering a smooth and round profile with a lively, energetic kick. This Japan matcha powder caters to both long-time matcha lovers looking for complexity and newcomers who want to dive in with a superior product from the start.
Pros:
- Bold, lively flavor
- Well-balanced undertones
- Packaged in a visually appealing and durable canister
Cons:
- May have some clumps after whisking
2.5. Matchaful Hikari Single Origin Ceremonial Matcha
With a smooth, light texture and easy whisking, Matchaful’s powder delivers a subtle flavor. Though this Japanese matcha powder is more expensive than comparable matcha powders, its minimalist taste is perfect for those who favor a pure, simple matcha flavor without the layers of other flavor notes.
Pros:
- Smooth and delicate flavor profile
- Sourced from high-quality, organic tea leaves
Cons:
- May require careful storage to maintain freshness
- Can be too mild for those who prefer stronger flavors
2.6. Chamberlain Coffee Matcha Green Tea Powder
Chamberlain Coffee Matcha Green Tea Powder, harvested from Shizuoka, Japan, comes from 100% organic Tencha leaves that flourish in the area’s volcanic soil and plentiful water. The fine texture of the powder prevents clumping, and it dissolves easily in water or milk without needing to be strained before whisking.
The flavor of this Japanese matcha powder is characterized by vegetal, grassy, and earthy notes. For those who prefer a sweeter flavor, it’s perfect for making honey-infused matcha lattes or adding to desserts. Additionally, the canister is designed cleverly, with a wide opening for easy portioning and a secure screw lid to avoid any leakage.
Pros:
- Offers a layered flavor with vibrant undertones
- Simple to whisk
- Comes in a practical package
Cons:
- A bit more vegetal than other options
2.7. Golde Pure Matcha
When used in baking, Golde Pure Matcha brings a fresh, lively flavor to treats, blending beautifully into doughs and batters. The scent of matcha fills the room as the treats bake. In beverages, this Japanese matcha powder has a smooth, grassy flavor with nutty notes and a trace of kinako.
Pros:
- Works well for various uses
- Features the best canister design among the options
Cons:
- Requires thorough sifting before whisking to prevent clumps
>> Read more: Instructions for using Japanese matcha powder properly
2.8 Ito En Matcha Powder
It is safe to assume that Ito En is the most popular green tea brand in Japan. This international beverage corporation specializing in tea production is not only liked by the majority of Japanese, but it is also Japan’s largest distributor of green tea.
The instant powdered green tea with matcha is one of its best-selling items. It’s incredibly simple to make at home; all you need is water to dissolve the powders, and you’re done!
Pros:
- Smooth, rich flavor with mild bitterness
- Convenient and easily accessible
- Great for both beverages and recipes
Cons:
- Slightly pricier compared to other options
- Packaging may not be as durable as premium brands
2.9. Ujido Ceremonial Blend Matcha
Ujido Ceremonial Blend Matcha is affordable, but it doesn’t match the performance of other ceremonial-grade powders when preparing simple drinks. It’s more suitable for baking, smoothies, or recipes that don’t need a strong, nuanced matcha flavor. If you prefer to use a larger amount, this could be an ideal choice.
Pros:
- Has a well-balanced, grassy taste
- Mild bitterness
- Budget-friendly
Cons:
- Lacks a tin, so it may expire faster
2.10. Naoki Matcha Superior Ceremonial Blend
Naoki Matcha Superior Ceremonial Blend is a perfect choice for matcha beginners. The bright green powder creates a perfectly balanced drink, with a gentle floral flavor that’s less grassy and almost free of bitterness. It’s great for both hot and cold beverages, especially in matcha lattes.
Pros:
- Offers a well-rounded profile with hints of rhubarb, arugula, and Italian parsley
- Ideal for matcha enthusiasts who enjoy experimenting with matcha treats, tonics, and smoothies
Cons:
- On the expensive side
2.11. Matcha Konomi Akira Ceremonial Grade Matcha
Konomi Akira Ceremonial Grade Matcha is an organic matcha of exceptional quality, great for both sipping as tea and creating matcha lattes with little to no sweetness. Its mild, creamy texture and vegetal flavor provide a delicate experience. This matcha is easy to prepare, with no sifting required, and it can be whisked or shaken smoothly without clumps.
Pros:
- Vibrant green hue
- Extremely finely ground
- The flavor is mild
Cons:
- Small metal tin with a pull-tab and screw-on lid
>>> Read more: The difference between Hojicha vs Matcha you should know
3. How to Choose the Best Matcha Powder
If you’re looking to add matcha to your diet, it’s important to choose a high-quality powder. This will ensure that you’re getting the most flavor and health benefits.Here are some tips for finding the best matcha powder on the market:
3.1. Consider the color, texture, taste, and origin
Selecting the best matcha powder involves considering its color, texture, flavor, and origin. A vibrant green color is a sign of high-quality, fresh leaves, and the powder should be fine and smooth for easy mixing. Premium matcha offers a smooth umami flavor with minimal bitterness.
Matcha from regions such as Uji and Kyoto, known for their ideal climate and cultivation practices, tends to be of superior quality. These factors will guide you in finding the perfect matcha for your preferences.
3.2. Be aware of the matcha tea grade
The grade of matcha powder is a key consideration when making your choice, with ceremonial-grade being the finest option. Meant for traditional tea ceremonies, ceremonial-grade matcha features a smooth, delicate taste and a bright green color, making it perfect for whisking with water to enjoy its full, pure flavor. This grade is highly favored by matcha aficionados seeking an authentic tea experience.
Culinary-grade matcha is known for its stronger, more bitter flavor, which makes it well-suited for use in smoothies, lattes, and baked goods. Though still of high quality, it’s not as refined as ceremonial-grade matcha, making it ideal for incorporating into recipes with other flavors. By understanding these grade differences, you can choose the perfect matcha for your specific needs.
3.3. Pay attention to quality indicators of best matcha powder
To select the best matcha powder, ensure it has a smooth and velvety texture, free of bitterness. The ideal matcha is finely ground, dissolving effortlessly in water or milk to create a luxurious, creamy texture that elevates your matcha experience.
The best matcha has minimal bitterness, allowing its inherent umami taste to be highlighted. Instead of an overwhelming bitterness, the finest matcha offers a delicate sweetness, a result of skillfully cultivating young, premium leaves. Smoothness and a smooth, well-balanced flavor are key signs that the matcha is of top grade.
4. Best Uses for Matcha Powder
Below is a comprehensive guide to using the best matcha powder Japan, offering insights on both how to integrate matcha into your meals and a selection of easy recipes to create delicious matcha-based dishes.
4.1. 6 Ways To Incorporate Matcha Powder Into Your Diet
Let’s explore 6 delicious and creative ways to incorporate matcha powder into your meals and snacks, unlocking its unique flavor and potential health benefits.
- Make matcha tea: To prepare traditional matcha, simply mix two teaspoons of matcha with hot water in a mug, and stir well to ensure the powder dissolves completely.
- Put it in your baked goods: Matcha powder is a great addition to baked goods like cookies, scones, and muffins. Just swap a bit of flour with matcha powder. You could even experiment with matcha waffles or pancakes for a fun breakfast. The vibrant green color is perfect for special occasions or to surprise the kids.
- Mix it in your morning oatmeal or bowl of granola: A convenient way to include matcha in your diet is by stirring it into your breakfast each morning.
- Give a boost to your green smoothie: If you love green smoothies, adding matcha powder will enhance both the color and health benefits.
- Make a matcha latte: Place some matcha powder in your cup, then pour hot water until the cup is a quarter full, and finish it off with steamed milk. For a non-dairy twist, choose coconut or almond milk.
- Put it on your popcorn: Add a dash of matcha powder to your popcorn for a tasty and wholesome snack while enjoying your favorite movie.
4.2. 5 Best recipes with matcha powders
Now, let’s discover 5 standout recipes that feature matcha powder, offering a delightful blend of taste and wellness:
- Matcha Whiskey Highball: Elevate your Japanese whisky highball with a quarter teaspoon of matcha, adding a layer of earthy, grassy flavor to the drink.
- Rose Matcha Latte: For a creamy, delicate latte, blend matcha with oat milk and let rosebuds infuse their fragrance into the warm drink. If your matcha doesn’t already contain them, you can buy dried rosebuds separately.
- Matcha Latte: For a quick and comforting matcha latte, simply mix matcha powder with milk and a little honey, and enjoy a soothing drink made right at home.
- Matcha Cupcake: This flavorful cake recipe adds matcha twice, once to the batter and once to the frosting. You can also use the same batter to make about 20 cupcakes instead of one large cake.
- Matcha Cookies: These cookies are rich in moisture and softness thanks to the oil, and the matcha offers a mild toasted flavor and a gorgeous green color. They’re completed with a dusting of matcha and powdered sugar for a finishing touch.
5. FAQs
5.1. How much matcha should I use for one cup?
Typically, for every 100ml of water, 2 grams of matcha powder is ideal, equivalent to half a cup. For an 8-ounce cup of matcha tea, you’ll need 4 grams to maintain the desired consistency.
5.2. Is matcha powder safe to consume every day?
While matcha can be consumed daily, it’s crucial to be aware of its high caffeine content and the potential presence of pesticides and chemicals. Although catechins offer health benefits, excessive consumption may be harmful. Moderation is key, with a recommended daily intake of 1 – 2 cups or up to 2 teaspoons of matcha powder.
5.3. Where can I find authentic Japanese matcha powder?
While you can find genuine Japanese matcha powder from various retailers, Janbox is one of the best platforms to buy it. By offering a curated selection of matcha sourced from popular Japanese websites like Amazon Japan and Mercari Japan, Janbox guarantees you get high-quality, authentic, also the best cheap matcha powder with the convenience of worldwide shipping, delivered right to your door.
>>> Read more: What you should know about the popular Japanese tea types?
6. Conclusion
Yeah, that is the end of our article about the best Japanese matcha powder. Hopefully, you find it informative. And if you are looking for a place to get your favorite matcha, look no further than Janbox. No matter what you want, we have you covered. So what are you waiting for? Visit Janbox website for a happy shopping experience!
- Website: https://janbox.com
- Email: [email protected]
