Green Tea vs. Matcha Tea

Green Tea

Green tea is a type of tea made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant. Unlike black or oolong teas, green tea is made by heating the leaves soon after picking to prevent oxidation. This keeps the leaves green and gives the tea its fresh, grassy taste. It originally came from China but is now popular across East Asia, especially in Japan, Korea, and Vietnam. There are many kinds of green tea, depending on where it's grown, how it's processed, and when it's harvested. For example, Japan’s sencha is steamed, giving it a bright green color and a sweet flavor, while China’s longjing is pan-fired, making it more toasty and mellow. Making a cup is simple: just steep the leaves in hot water, but not boiling—usually around 70–80°C (160–175°F)—for a couple of minutes. If the water is too hot or you steep it too long, the tea can taste bitter. Green tea has been linked to many health claims, but the evidence is mixed. It does have some caffeine, though less than coffee, and contains a...

Matcha Tea

Matcha tea is a smooth, vibrant green beverage made by whisking finely ground green tea leaves into hot water. Unlike regular green tea, where the leaves are steeped and removed, matcha is fully consumed, which gives it a fuller body and a richer, more complex flavor. The taste is a blend of grassy freshness, gentle bitterness, and a deep, savory umami that lingers pleasantly. High-quality matcha can be surprisingly sweet and creamy, while lower grades tend to be more astringent. Preparing matcha is as much about the process as it is about the drink itself. The powder is first sifted into a bowl to break up any clumps, then a small amount of hot water—usually around 80°C—is added. Using a bamboo whisk, called a chasen, the tea is briskly whisked in a zigzag motion until a layer of fine, soft foam forms on top. This foam not only looks appealing but also softens the tea’s natural bitterness, creating a silky texture and smooth mouthfeel. There are two primary styles of matcha tea: usu...

Reviews

Reviewed on 3/2/2024

Too much caffeine for me :(

Reviews

Reviewed on 2/25/2025

Green and exciting

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Pros
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Super healthy and delicious1
Cons
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Can be an acquired taste for some1

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