I cherish my morning coffee. Don't we all!
I prefer it over green tea - which I am trying to like because it is so incredibly good for you. When Whitney's doctor told him to back off the coffee so he'd sleep better, I became more motivated to find a tea we’d both like.
“Matcha” green tea continues to be the “stand out tea”…(and I continue to try it but this time I’m not giving in or: giving up my morning java). I even made an attempt at Matcha protein bread and Matcha vegan ice cream!
Here’s why all of us should be drinking more of it:
1. Matcha is an antioxidant powerhouse.
2. L-Theanine, an amino acid found in matcha, along with caffeine create increased focus and sustained energy throughout the day. L-Theanine has been found to relax the brain, muscles, and blood vessels.
3. Matcha is five times higher in chlorophyll than regular green tea. Chlorophyll benefits the immune system.
Five Benefits:
- Reduce the risk of cancer
- Helps with weight loss
- Alzheimer's prevention
- Reduces risk of diabetes
- Liver and oral health
My new fav is Matchaful. Hannah Habes, founder of this cult like brand is passionate about her Matcha and thinks you should be too. Her spin on the classic Matcha latte not only makes the flavor more spicy, sweet, and fragrant, but takes the healing benefits to the next level. I took her Chai Spiced Matcha Latte recipe and made my own more simplistic one. You could even try it iced or in a smoothie for the summer.
Chai Spiced Matcha Latte
Makes 4 servings
Ingredients
2 cups water
½ teaspoon ground cardamom
½ teaspoon cloves
2 cinnamon sticks
1 tablespoon fresh ginger or 1 teaspoon ground ginger
2 teaspoons ceremonial grade matcha (Matchaful's organic Emerald or Jade)
3 drops stevia or 1 teaspoon agave or honey (optional)
6 to 8 ounces warm or steamed almond milk
Bring the water to a boil, and add all ingredients except for chai. Reduce heat to simmer and let simmer for 10 minutes.
Strain chai mixture and pour 3 ounces into each of 4 cups. Add ½ teaspoon of matcha to each cup and whisk with a fork or matcha whisk until frothy.
Top with milk and drink immediately.
Or try in your next green smoothie!
Go Green. Go Matcha. But Starbucks is good too once in a while :)