I was pretty excited when I got an email asking if I wanted to try a new matcha, along with a new system of making matcha. As a traditional, whole-leaf kind of woman when it comes to tea (I only use tea bags when I go out for dinner – and I bring my own), I was eager for the matcha, yet a bit skeptical when it came to a new system. I haven’t used my matcha tools much lately, as matcha tends to fall in and out of favor with me. When I use up a tin, it’s often months before I remember to replace it. At least I’ll have some matcha left over after I try the new method, I told myself.
Before I knew it, a white box arrived and inside was everything I’d need to bring matcha into the 21st Century. Although I already had a frother with its own stand, the travel one that was included was a great perk. Feeling a bit intimidated, I went onto the site and did a little reading before going to the “master class video.”
I was reminded that matcha is an ancient drink, discovered back in late 12th Century Japan, which gained popularity in the 14th Century when the tea ceremony was created. I also learned that the one gram of matcha powder I would be using would produce about 25 milligrams of caffeine, considerably less than coffee; I should expect a spike in alertness without the jitters.
Now it was time to learn the new system and watch their 2.34-minute video. This precious production was set in a forest and was a delightful way to learn the process. It made you want to grab your stuff and head into the woods for a beautiful hike in nature. I headed into the kitchen and did my thing and – WOW – it was great. The matcha tasted wonderful, not bitter or watery. They’ve got the amounts worked out just right. There is no learning curve as there is with the traditional wooden whisk, just some easy foam from the battery-operated frother. I felt like I was drinking an espresso-sized frothy latte, but it was a brilliant green. I immediately went back to the website to check out their creamers (for mixing) and cups. WOW again. I’m loving it. Eric Gower, the founder of Breakaway Matcha, thought of everything. I love the simple shapes and perfect sizes of these artisan-crafted selections. My only problem is having to make room for these must-have matcha vessels.
Open your mind to something new and exciting. I won’t be giving away my traditional tools, but I’m definitely making room for Breakaway Matcha. Way to go, Eric!
You may want to edit the line about caffeine content. I don’t think the laws of the universe would allow 1g of leaf to produce 25g of caffeine :) I’m guessing you meant 25mg?
25 mg is exactly what we meant to say. Thanks, John, for that catch – good to know our readers are on their toes! I have made the correction.
Thanks so much Michelle.
Whoops, got cut off there! I know plenty of folks have an (understandable) aversion to making matcha in any way other than the traditional, but foaming wand really does work well with a tiny bit of practice. Also, it’s important to use VERY little water when making matcha in this manner: just an ounce or so of hot (175ish) water. That will produce a quite thick cup, but it’s easy to then thin it out to taste, AFTER you’ve made the crema. I also enjoy drinking it in small cups; it doesn’t have all the weightiness of the traditional bowl (which I adore btw for other uses; I have a large collection of them).
This of course isn’t exactly a new topic, but I feel that artisanal matcha is such a fantastic epicurean treat/endeavor that ANY means to get more people to drink great matcha are good.