Matcha Cold Brew vs Iced Tea: Which is the Best Way to Refresh?
On a crisp spring or warm summer day, there's nothing more refreshing than a cold glass of iced tea. However, if you're looking for a beverage with added health benefits and a bigger boost of caffeine and antioxidants, consider trying matcha.That's where matcha comes in. In this article, we'll compare matcha cold brew and matcha iced tea, and tell you everything you need to know about how to prepare them.
How to Make Cold Brew Matcha Tea
Matcha cold brew is made by adding high-quality matcha powder to cold water and stirring or shaking it up. The result is a smooth and flavorful beverage that can be enjoyed any time of day. Cold brew matcha has a mellow flavor that some people find less bitter than hot matcha tea. It's a great way to get the health benefits of matcha without the need for hot water.
To make cold brew matcha, let the matcha powder steep in cold water for 30 minutes to an hour. Some people prefer to let it sit for several hours or even overnight to achieve a more concentrated flavor and higher antioxidant content. Keep in mind that the longer you steep any tea, the more bitter it may become. If you prefer a smoother and less bitter flavor, try adjusting the steeping time by steeping for 30 minutes or less .Additionally, always be sure to use a high-quality matcha powder like ceremonial grade matcha for the most delicious flavor. You can even use a matcha shaker for quick and easy matcha if you can't wait. Check out Art of Tea's MatchaSticks Shaker Bundle for an easy-to-use and convenient way to make matcha cold brew.
How to Make Iced Matcha Tea
Iced matcha tea is made by whisking matcha powder with hot water and then pouring it over ice. This method creates a stronger and more flavorful tea, with a slightly bitter taste that is characteristic of matcha. To make iced matcha tea, boil fresh, filtered water and let it cool down for a few minutes until it reaches a temperature of around 175-180°F (80-82°C). This temperature is lower than the boiling point of water to prevent the matcha from becoming too bitter as boiling water can burn matcha.
Measure out about 1 teaspoon of high-quality matcha powder and pour a small amount of hot water (about 2 ounces or 60ml) into a matcha bowl or any heat-resistant bowl or cup. Make sure the water is not boiling hot to avoid damaging the matcha powder. Add the matcha powder to the bowl and whisk vigorously until the powder is fully dissolved and the mixture becomes frothy. Pour the mixture over a glass filled with ice to create an iced matcha. Art of Tea's At-Home Matcha Kit provides all the tools you need to make matcha iced tea, including a matcha bowl and whisk.
Is Matcha Cold Brew or Iced Matcha Tea Better for Your Health?
Both matcha cold brew and iced matcha tea provide unique health benefits that are not typically found in other types of tea. Matcha is rich in antioxidants called catechins, which have been linked to various health benefits. Catechins help protect against oxidative stress, a contributing factor to chronic illnesses such as cancer, diabetes, and heart disease. Matcha is also a good source of L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes relaxation and may enhance mental clarity and focus.
It is important to note that the preparation method may affect the antioxidant levels in matcha. Cold brew matcha is believed to have a higher concentration of catechins than iced matcha tea due to its longer steeping time in cold water. Nonetheless, both types of matcha are still excellent sources of antioxidants that offer various health benefits when consumed regularly.
Matcha Cold Brew vs. Matcha Iced Tea: Flavor Differences
The flavor of matcha cold brew and iced matcha tea differs, and it comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a smoother and creamier beverage with a milder flavor, matcha cold brew might be your preference. However, if you prefer a stronger and more robust tea with a slightly bitter taste, try matcha iced tea.
Conclusion: Which One is Better, Matcha Cold Brew or Iced Tea?
Now that you know how to cold brew tea and make iced tea, which one is your pick? Do you love bold, strong flavors that come from hot brewing, or do you prefer the light and refreshing taste of cold brewing? Whatever your preference, the choice is yours! And if you're interested in exploring more matcha flavors, check out Art of Tea's Matcha Collection, which includes many delicious options including Ceremonial Grade Matcha, Grade A Matcha, Matcha Fresca, Matcha Cocoa, and more. You can also find teaware to make your matcha experience even better. Happy sipping!