The growing popularity of Matcha among consumers is no surprise, considering its numerous health benefits! At Cornelia Bean, we take pride in offering high-quality Matcha sourced from a family farm in the Shizuoka Prefecture of Japan. This location is renowned for its nutrient-rich soil, ensuring that our customers receive the best Matcha possible.
Our Matcha comes in two grades: Organic Ceremonial Grade and Organic Culinary Grade. To complete the Matcha experience at home, we also offer beautifully handcrafted Matcha bowls and implements.
Matcha is derived from the Camellia Sinensis plant, which also produces black, green, puerh, oolong, yellow, and white teas, depending on the processing method. However, Matcha's processing is unique, involving shade-grown leaves to enhance chlorophyll content, which are then ground into a powder.
Historically, Matcha was the first type of tea consumed in Japan, introduced by Buddhist monks. While China initially introduced the concept, Japan embraced Matcha as a "way of life."
Ceremonial Grade Matcha is made from spring leaves that have been shaded for 2 to 3 weeks prior to harvest. These leaves are meticulously processed, resulting in a higher grade and superior flavor. Culinary Grade Matcha, on the other hand, is made from the same bushes but is often mechanically harvested, including lower leaves and new growth.
Tea Processing Stages:
- Shincha: The first harvest, literally meaning "new tea."
- Aracha: The pre-process of the leaves before final processing, including steaming, rolling, and drying. Aracha includes two tea leaf styles selected from the first harvest
Two tea leaf styles are selected from the first harvest:
- Tencha is the leaf destined for grinding into matcha.
- Gyokuro is the finished high grade tea sold in leaf form.
The growing process for Matcha is meticulous and time-consuming, requiring attention to detail at every stage. However, the end result is a high-quality powder that is prized by tea enthusiasts worldwide.
There are many delicious ways to enjoy Matcha, whether hot or cold, blended or pure, baked, or added to soups. Matcha is not only stimulating but also calming, thanks to its caffeine and L-theanine content. Additionally, it is rich in antioxidants, making it capable of fighting free radicals in the body. One serving of Matcha can provide health benefits equivalent to that of 5 cups of green tea.
Incorporating Matcha into your daily routine is an excellent way to boost your overall health. Why not enjoy a serving today?
Here is one last important tip! Matcha should be store in the fridge, sealed to maintain flavour and nutrition.
