Japanese Matcha: Best Instant Matcha and Green-Tea Sweets
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The differences between matcha and green tea
Green tea is crafted by steaming sun-grown tea leaves, which are then pressed and rolled.
Matcha, on the other hand, is made from tea buds that have been shielded from direct sunlight. Following harvest, the leaves are steamed and dried without rolling, eventually being ground into a fine powder.
This method makes matcha more flavorful compared to green tea, which also contributes to a higher price due to the additional time and effort involved.
Famous matcha-producing regions in Japan
Japan's most renowned region for producing matcha is the town of Uji in Kyoto Prefecture. Uji boasts a tea-producing legacy that spans centuries, with numerous shops in the town offering not only tea leaves and matcha but also delectable sweets.
Famous green tea-producing regions in Japan
Uji, renowned for its matcha, is equally famous for its traditional green tea, with the locally produced green tea ranking among the most expensive varieties in Japan.
Other renowned tea-producing regions include Shizuoka Prefecture and Sayama in Saitama Prefecture. In Shizuoka, tea cultivation thrives throughout the entire prefecture, currently accounting for a significant 40 percent of the country's domestic production.
Meanwhile, tea farms in Sayama use a distinctive fire-roasting method known as Sayama hi-ire, giving its tea a flavorful and rich taste.
Together, they are collectively known as Japan's three most famous tea regions, representing the rich and diverse tea culture of the country.
Shop for the best instant matcha
While whisking up a traditional bowl of matcha takes some time and effort, you can also opt for convenient instant variations. Available in handy sachets, all you need to do is put the powder into a mug and pour hot water over it.
Shop for these products at your nearby supermarket, convenience store, or drug store. Read on for the best instant matcha on the market.
Nestlé Adult Reward Uji Matcha Latte
Nestlé's Adult Reward Uji Matcha Latte, crafted from high-grade Uji matcha renowned for its aromatic qualities and subtle bitterness, offers a sweet and rich experience.
The blend creates a perfect harmony between milk and matcha, making it an ideal beverage for any time of the day. One box contains five sachets.
Blendy Stick Matcha Au Lait
Blendy Stick is one of Japanâs most popular brands for instant teas and coffee variations. Its matcha au lait is made from domestically-produced matcha, giving it a rich flavor. This beverage tends to be on the sweeter side, making it ideal for those new to matcha.
During the summer, you can also transform it into an iced matcha au lait, creating a refreshing option for hot days.
Each cup contains 110 milligrams of polyphenol, known for its various health benefits. The product is available in packs of either six or twenty sachets.
Ito En Oi Ocha Green Tea with Matcha
This instant green tea is infused with matcha, giving it that vibrant green color. Itâs designed to dissolve easily in hot or cold water, making it the perfect drink for any season.
Since it doesn't contain milk powder, it offers a more refreshing experience compared to latte varieties. The resealable zipper ensures convenient storage.
Find Kit Kat matcha chocolates
Kit Kat is a globally popular treat, and it comes in two distinct matcha variations. Each bag contains ten individually-wrapped chocolates, making them excellent souvenirs.
Kit Kat Mini Otona no Amasa: Mature Sweetness Rich Matcha
By kneading crushed biscuits into Uji matcha-flavored dough, this treat is especially crunchy. The matchaâs bitterness, aroma, and umami blend well with the sweetness of the chocolate.
Kit Kat Mini Yokubari Double: Blend of Matcha and Original Kit Kat
Those whoâre just starting to get used to matcha, or canât decide between the original Kit Kat flavor and matcha, should opt for this fusion type.
Kit Kat Yokubari Double features the signature chocolate flavor at the bottom, with the Uji matcha type layered on top.
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Pick up matcha sweets in Kyoto
Kyoto is famous for matcha and its myriad of matcha-infused sweets. When youâre in the city, consider picking up a few, such as the ones listed below.
Itohkyuemon Uji Matcha Langue de Chat Green Hagoromo
This exquisite Japanese-Western-style confection is crafted by Itokyuemon, a long-established teahouse in Kyoto.
Between cookies made from fragrant dough infused with Uji matcha, you'll find a layer of rich white chocolate. Itâs elegantly wrapped in Japanese-style packaging, making it a great souvenir.
Malebranche Okoicha Langue de Chat Chanoka
Malebrancheâs chanoka langue de chat cookies use okoicha, dark green tea made from high-quality tea leaves known for their subtle bitterness.
The matcha powder is kneaded into the cookie dough to enhance its aroma, while a layer of white chocolate is sandwiched between two thin cookies. The white packaging with gold imprint makes it an ideal souvenir.
Limited-edition and seasonal matcha sweets
There are also numerous limited-edition and seasonal matcha snacks. Browse the many different supermarkets, convenience stores, and department stores to find the latest options.
Discover different Japanese matcha products
Matcha is not only reserved for formal tea ceremonies but is also available in the form of instant drinks and sweets. During your visit to Japan, be sure to grab a few of the aforementioned matcha items and savor Japanâs signature flavor in the comfort of your home.
Explore more of Japan by using one of the many different transportation passes.
*The information in this article, such as prices and business hours, was accurate at the time of publication but is subject to change. Please refer to the official website(s) for the latest information.
