How can I tell?
Small bubbles rising
Can hold hand above kettle more than 7 seconds
↔ Or swipe
Don't boil
Caffeine/Theanine Ratio
Higher temperatures increase the caffeine/theanine ratio. Caffeine reduces the calming effects of theanine and tastes bitter.
Temp sweetspot
65-80°C strikes a good balance between calming effects, energy and rich taste.
No thermometer?
Heat the water until bubbles are rapidly floating up. If it's already boiling, let it cool. If you can hold your hand right above the kettle, it's ready!
How can I tell?
1 level teaspoon
2 bamboo spoons or
About the size of a bottle lid
↔ Swipe for details
Good Measure
Matcha ratio
2g is the usual portion size and also the most used in research studies.
Why we sift
- Prevents clumps
- Creates a smooth texture and foam
Your personal ratio
Nao is a sweet and subtle matcha. For plant based milk, you can even use 1.5g or 1g. The fats in dairy milk overwhelm the matcha taste, so at least 2g is recommended.
No scale?
1 teaspoon or about the size of a small bottle lid should be enough.
How to whisk?
W or M motion from wrist
30 seconds vigorous whisking
20 seconds slower whisking
↔ Swipe for details
Whisking W
The W-Motion
Not stirring - aerating. Keep the chasen near surface. We're creating thousands of micro-bubbles, not mixing paint.
Why whisk this way?
Like wine, matcha will bring out more flavor by aerating. We do this with a fast W motion. It's easier to avoid clumps than circular motion.
How long?
Use the 30-20-10 rule. 30 seconds really fast, 20 seconds go moderate and final 10 seconds go slow.
Signs of Mastery
Good foam has bubbles so tiny they shimmer. Smooth and silky surface.
How can I tell?
Add 180-220ml plant milk
Try oat and soy milk
No sugar needed
↔ Swipe for details
Matcha Latte Ready!
Plant Milk
Being a subtle taste, Nao pairs best with plant milk like oat, soy or almond.
If You Add Dairy Milk
Dairy milk works too, but the matcha taste won't be as strong.
The Truth About Sugar
Quality matcha needs none. If bitter, try decreasing water temperature. Give it a few tries. Your palate will adjust. If you still want to add honey or sugar, we won't judge :)
