Matcha vs. Green Tea: What’s the difference?

Matcha vs. Green Tea: What’s the difference?

Have you been wondering about the differences between matcha and green tea? Matcha and tea are made of the same thing, coming from the some Camellia sinensis plant - however they differ significantly in how they’re grown, processed, prepared and consumed differently. The literal translation of the Japanese word matcha (抹茶) is the kanji 抹 (pulverise) and 茶 (tea), which essentially explains what it is - finely pulverised, grounded tea leaves.

Let’s get into the nitty gritty details… Whether you’re looking for a calming tea break or a better energy boost, understanding these differences can help you choose the perfect sip! 

1. How They’re Grown and Processed

Matcha 🍵

  • Matcha plants are shade-grown for about three weeks before harvest, which increases chlorophyll levels and gives the tea its vibrant green colour.
  • Only the best leaves are selected, steamed, dried, and then stone-ground into a fine powder.
  • This process enhances matcha’s unique umami flavour and nutrient content.

Green Tea 🍃

  • Grown in direct sunlight, green tea leaves develop a lighter green colour and a fresh, slightly grassy taste.
  • The leaves are picked, steamed (or pan-fired), and dried, then left whole or in pieces.
  • With less chlorophyll and L-theanine than matcha, green tea has a milder, more delicate flavour.

2. How They’re Prepared

Matcha 🍵

  • Matcha is a powder that is whisked into hot water, meaning you consume the whole leaf.
  • Can be enjoyed in traditional tea ceremonies, lattes, smoothies, and even baked goods.
  • The texture is creamy and slightly frothy, offering a rich and bold taste.

Green Tea 🍃

  • Made by steeping whole leaves in hot water for a few minutes, then discarding the leaves.
  • Comes in many varieties like Sencha, Gyokuro, and Hojicha, each with its own unique taste.
  • Generally has a light, refreshing, and slightly astringent flavour.

3. Health Benefits

Matcha 🍵

  • Contains more caffeine than green tea but with the added benefit of L-theanine, which promotes calm and focus.
  • Helps with detoxification, thanks to its high chlorophyll content.

Green Tea 🍃

  • Lower caffeine content, making it a great option for those sensitive to stimulants.
  • Supports digestion and hydration, making it an excellent everyday tea choice.

4. Caffeine Levels

Matcha 🍵

  • Contains 35-70 mg of caffeine per serving, depending on the amount used.
  • The combination of caffeine and L-theanine provides a steady, sustained energy boost without the jitters.

Green Tea 🍃

  • Contains 20-45 mg of caffeine per cup, significantly less than matcha.
  • Offers a gentle lift in energy, making it a great option for afternoon or evening sipping.

As a tea lover, you might want to step up your tea game, honestly you can’t go wrong. Why not try both and see which one fits your routine best?

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