My Simple Matcha Latte & Why You Should Be Drinking It

Why everyone is talking about this green tea superpower, the health benefits it provides, and my 3-ingredient matcha latte recipe

A MATCHA MADE IN HEAVEN

You've probably heard people talking about matcha teas, lattes, smoothies and even baked goods like cookies and cakes. Or maybe you've jumped on the trend yourself making a grande matcha from Starbucks your new go-to. It's one of those things that has always been around but, like many superfoods, is suddenly very trendy. So why is everyone talking about it?

I remember the first time I ever tasted anything "matcha" and it was actually matcha ice cream (yes, ice cream!) in a sushi restaurant in my hometown, Buffalo, NY, about 10 years ago.  Which makes total sense to me now that I know that matcha is a Japanese green tea. Back then I only knew that the green tea tempura-fried ice cream was the best dessert on the menu, but now that I know more about the properties of the tea I know there are so many more amazing reasons to keep consuming it.

WHAT'S THE BIG DEAL?

The main reason people are putting matcha in just about everything is because of its antioxidant (a.k.a cancer-fighting) properties. The main antioxidant it contains is EGCg which is the most widely recognised antioxidant for cancer prevention. Not only does it contain these cancer-fighting antioxidants, but a lot of 'em! It has more than 6 times as many antioxidants as gogiberries, and is off the charts in comparison to other commonly known antioxidant-rich foods like pomegranate, blueberries, acaiberries, broccoli and spinach.

Another main benefit the tea boasts is its ability to boost your metabolism and burn fat while naturally detoxifying the body.

Other Matcha superpowers:

• Rich in fiber and vitamins
• Lowers cholesterol and blood sugar
• Source of Vitamin C, Selenium, Chromium, Zinc, and Magnesium
• Calms the body and mind
• Enhances your mood and aids in concentration

GIMME THE RECIPE

If you aren't already swapping your morning coffee for a cup of this green goodness, try my go-to-3- ingredient matcha tea latte. Super easy, quick, and delicious.

Ingredients:

2 tsp. matcha green tea powder

3/4 cup unsweetened almond or coconut milk

Honey to sweeten (vegan option: substitute maple or agave syrup)

How to:

Pour about 1-inch of hot water in a coffee mug

Mix in matcha powder and stir well. If you have a bamboo tea whisk this can help break up the powder and mix it better

Stir in sweetener of choice

Heat milk (and froth if possible) Pour into the hot water/tea mixture.

Done!