PantryPic #599: Matcha Tea

-Organic Matcha Tea.
-It is pulverized Green Tea which increases the catechins (antioxidants) availablity by 10-20x.
-Also, pulzervized form allows us to absorb the beneficial EGCG 2x better
(since you actually are consuming the tea leaves).
-Matcha Tea is made from leaves that are grown in the shade to promote more chlorophyll synthesis in the plant.
-L-Theanine levels are preserved, giving it more properties of mental calming (since it can cross the blood-brain barrier), even though it contains caffeine.
-Health benefits include anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties, lowering of cortisol and blood pressure, and improving ratio of good:bad bacteria in the gut flora.
-Should be stone ground and a deep vibrant green.
-The finer the tea, the higher the quality (avoid gritty Matcha).
-Quality ranked as Cooking, Standard (made from Tencha), or Ceremonial grade (Highest quality offering the most health benefits).
-Avoid “Green Tea Powder” Matcha, since this is not really true Matcha.

 -There are various ways to prepare Matcha, and most often you will consume just a few ounces of the tea.
-Follow the directions on the container, but generally it is prepared with warm or hot (never boiling) water and a whisk.
-Matcha powder can also be added to your healthy Shake recipes.
-Like Turmeric, if you consume along with Black Pepper you can increase the absorption of Matcha.
-Use within 1 year of harvest date.
-Brand should be tested and free of radiation.
-Store in an air-tight tin or container so that light cannot hit it. 

How I prepare my Matcha Tea:
– Use water that is near boiling.
– Pour into a small bowl and dump out in order to pre-heat the bowl.

– Add 1 tsp of high quality Organic Matcha Powder.

– Pour 2-4oz of the hot (not boiling water) over the powder.

– Aggressively whisk for 1-2 mins until you have a top layer of small, frothy bubbles.

ENJOY!