What utensils are needed to prepare the Matcha tea ceremony?

Matcha kit

The art of ceremonial matcha tea

Matcha tea is a hidden gem within Asian tea culture. Preparing it is more than simply mixing a green powder with hot water; for many, it's a ritual that brings calm, presence, and a moment of connection with oneself. Here you'll find a simple and personal explanation of how to prepare authentic ceremonial matcha, what utensils are used, and the differences between its various qualities.

What exactly is matcha tea?

Although it's often associated with Japan today, matcha originated in China. There, the tradition of grinding green tea leaves into a fine powder began. Over time, this preparation method spread, and each country incorporated its own way of cultivating, processing, and consuming the tea.

Matcha is obtained by grinding green tea leaves that are grown using special techniques, such as shading before harvesting. This increases the concentration of chlorophyll and amino acids, which are responsible for its intense green color and characteristic sweet, vegetal flavor.

Types of matcha according to their quality

The quality of matcha depends on many factors: the part of the leaf used, the type of cultivation, the milling process, the harvest, and other details. To keep things simple, it's most practical to divide it into two main categories:

Ceremonial Matcha

This is the highest quality matcha. It's made with young, tender leaves and slowly ground in traditional mills until it reaches an extremely fine texture. Its color is typically a bright green, and its flavor is smooth and sweet. It's ideal for enjoying with just water, savoring the pure taste of the tea.

Culinary Matcha

It's more affordable and has a more intense flavor with a slightly bitter note. It's designed to be mixed with other ingredients. It's used in desserts, smoothies, ice cream, breads, and recipes where matcha isn't consumed on its own.

What utensils are used for the Matcha tea ceremony?

If you want to prepare matcha in the traditional style, these are the most common utensils:

  • Chawan or bowl . This is where the matcha is mixed and drunk.

  • Chasen or bamboo whisk . It is used to whisk the matcha until a light foam appears.

  • Chashaku or bamboo spoon . It is used to measure the right amount of tea.

  • Chakin or cloth . It is used to clean the bowl and dry the whisk.

How to prepare matcha tea step by step

  1. Heat the bowl. Put some hot water inside, wait a few seconds, and empty it.

  2. Add the matcha. One or two heaped teaspoons with the chashaku are enough.

  3. Add the water. The ideal temperature is between 70 and 80 degrees.

  4. Whisk with the chasen. Make W-shaped movements until a soft foam appears on the surface.

  5. Take it slowly. Matcha is best enjoyed when there's no rush.

Alternatives if you don't have the traditional utensils

It's okay if you're missing any accessories. You can easily replace them.

  • Instead of the chasen, use a small fork.

  • Instead of the chashaku you can use a measuring spoon.

  • Any clean kitchen cloth will work instead of a chakin.

The best kits to get started in the matcha ceremony

Here are some sets that stand out for their quality, usefulness, and value. You can click on the name if you want to see more details or current prices.

Artcome Japanese Matcha Tea Set : ⭐⭐⭐⭐

A simple and practical set that works very well for beginners.

Includes whisk, bamboo spoon, bowl, ceramic chasen holder, cloth, spoon rest and strainer.
Everything is made from natural bamboo with a vegetable oil finish, without varnishes or chemicals.

TEANAGOO : ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

A more professional, robust, and durable set. It's more expensive, but it's also one of those sets you buy once and it will last for years.

Includes nine pieces: whisk, spoon, large ceramic bowl, whisk holder, spoon holder, cotton cloth, strainer, and two extra cups.
Ideal for those who want to make matcha a stable part of their daily routine.

ORIGEENS TE MATCHA KIT : ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Very complete and easy to use, it also includes 30 grams of organic matcha.
The singing bowl is made in Portugal and comes with its matching bamboo chasen and chashaku. It's one of our best-selling sets due to its excellent balance of quality and price.

Preparing a ceremonial matcha is a small experience that combines calm, flavor, and presence. It doesn't need to be perfect; simply enjoy the process and the moment. Hopefully, this article will inspire you to experience this ritual and discover all that matcha can bring to your daily life.

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