Happy New Year! It’s National Hot Tea Month. At the beginning of every year some of us make new year resolutions that include a pledge to be healthier and to try something new. I’ve learned that instead of making resolutions it’s better to commit to living your best life, or in my case, live a tea way of life. The great thing is that this month and the months to come I can have it all - I can continue to drink tea for good health, try new teas, and have my best life equal a life with tea.
For my morning ritual, black tea has always been my tea of choice. While black tea has its health benefits, and its share of caffeine for that morning boost (about 42 mg per 8 fl. oz cup), I’m leaning towards Matcha teas this year. This finely ground powder of specially grown and processed green tea is an easy and simple way to add powerful health benefits to your everyday diet. While Matcha is arguably an acquired taste, we can’t discount its many healthy attributes. Matcha is packed with antioxidants including the powerful EGCg, boosts metabolism, detoxifies, provides vitamin C, calms the mind, and relaxes the body. Did you know Samurai, the noble warriors of medieval and early-modern Japan, drank Matcha green tea before going into battle due to the tea’s energizing properties? Perhaps a Matcha morning is just what the doctor ordered.
I confess that after years of searching, I’ve found a Matcha that I can drink everyday.
I “Met My Matcha” at T2 (www.t2tea.com). As a purist, I usually gravitate towards tea in its dare I say it “purist form”. However, it’s the flavored Matcha teas that draw my attention. At T2, Mint with a hint of honey or Cinnamon with a splash of almond milk are tops on my list. These days the traditional preparation involves a three-piece set including a whisk, bowl, and Matcha spoon or scoop, which is sold at most tea shops. But of course, you can always improvise and use any small bowl, a small kitchen whisk and a teaspoon.
With hot water at a temperature of 175 degrees, the Matcha powder is whisked in an M shape until the mixture starts to froth. Then you cup the bowl in your hands and sip. The genius at T2 is the introduction of the T2 Matcha Flask featuring a hidden stainless steel whisk to help make your Matcha quick. With a few shakes you have a great Matcha brew to go! Here's to days filled with joy, health, peace and many, many cups of tea.
Cheers!