Journal / HOW TO

How to Make Ceremonial Matcha

How to Make Ceremonial Matcha

Learn how to prepare ceremonial matcha in the traditional style with Japanese tea master Ryo Iwamoto.

Date:

November 15, 2023

Author:

Rishi Tea

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Sift

1

Begin by sifting matcha—always sift the matcha for the best texture and taste.

Adding matcha to the tea bowl using a tea scoop

Measure

2

Add approximately 1 teaspoon (2 grams) of matcha to the tea bowl (chawan), using a tea scoop (chashaku)

pour hot water to the bowl

Heat Water & Pour

3

Bring water to a boil. Cool to 165°F. Pour about 2 oz of water over the matcha.  Water is boiled and then cooled to remove any chlorine that may effect the taste. To cool water more quickly pour it into a water cooling pitcher.

brew matcha in bowl

Whisk

4

Remove whisk from warm water. Shake off excess. Hovering just above the bottom of matcha bowl, whip vigorously with the wrist, using a back-and-forth motion in the shape on the letter M until the tea is sufficiently aerated and a fine, creamy foam forms on the surface, approximately 15-25 seconds. Use whisk to remove larger bubbles and to smooth out surface.

serve and enjoy matcha tea

Serve & Enjoy

5

According to Japanese tea culture, to serve politely, the tea bowl is shown on all sides and is served with best side forward.

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A Note on How to Brew Loose Leaf Tea

Rishi Tea & Botanicals includes recommendations on how to brew your particular loose leaf variety, including the brewing method, steep time, temperature, amount and teaware. If you’re researching how to brew loose leaf tea without an infuser, the Simple Brew includes a removable strainer, so a separate infuser is not required.

Looking for more brewing guidance? Explore our collection of step-by-step brewing instructions by tea type and teaware.

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