Growing up, I was accustomed to a certain kind of coffee — bitter, harsh, and burnt, followed by that much needed caffeine kick. I thought that’s how coffee was supposed to taste, until I discovered specialty coffee. Similarly, my first experience with matcha wasn’t great. It tasted bitter, earthy, and had a strange fish-like smell. Milk helped mask these flavors, but I couldn’t quite understand why it was so popular. This was about five years ago, but recently, my perception changed when I discovered a matcha brand that made me realize I haven’t been tasting the right kind of matcha all along. More on that later.

What is Matcha, and Is It Really Beneficial?

We’ve all seen what matcha is supposed to look like. A vibrant green powder made from specially grown tea leaves. But matcha’s color isn’t just for show; it’s one of the first indicators of quality. High-grade matcha should be bright green, not a dull or yellowish-green.

Matcha’s versatility makes it easy to enjoy every day. Whether you prefer it in its purest form, whisked into hot water, or as a matcha latte with plant-based milk, its flavor and health benefits are hard to beat. Unlike regular green tea where leaves are steeped and discarded, matcha allows you to consume the whole leaf, significantly boosting its nutritional value.

Here’s where matcha stands out: it’s packed with antioxidants which help fight free radicals, support heart health, and even aid in cancer prevention. In fact, matcha ranks among the top antioxidant-rich foods, even surpassing some grades of Goji-berries in ORAC (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity) value.

For the health-conscious, matcha is also a natural detoxifier: rich in chlorophyll that helps flush out toxins. It provides a gentle energy boost thanks to its unique combination of caffeine and L-theanine, promoting calm focus without the “caffeine crash” often associated with coffee. Gym-goers will definitely vouch for the combo.

Ceremonial-Grade Matcha vs. Other Types

Just as coffee comes in different grades, not all matcha is created equal. Ceremonial-grade matcha, the highest quality available, is made from the youngest tea leaves, ensuring the vibrant green color that we already spoke about, but also in feel: smooth texture, and most importantly the flavor which is naturally sweet.

Traditionally and up until now, this grade is used in Japanese tea ceremonies and is certified by the Japanese Agricultural Standards (JAS), ensuring organic farming practices and confirming its origin. Ceremonial-grade matcha is pure and free of additives, making it ideal for enjoying in its simplest form, just like a shot of espresso for coffee lovers.

On the other hand, culinary-grade matcha, while still beneficial, is slightly more bitter and has lower antioxidant levels due to the use of older tea leaves. This type is commonly used in cooking and for drinks like matcha lattes or smoothies.

You can do a quick assessment of the matcha by doing a Milling test. A small pile of powder is deposited with a teaspoon of different qualities of matcha on a blank sheet of paper. Use a finger to draw down from the matcha powder in a straight line. The longer and firmer the line, the creamier the texture, the better the quality. The greener and creamier, the higher the quality.

Matcha vs. Coffee: The Key Differences

When it comes to comparing matcha and coffee, the differences go beyond taste. Both contain caffeine, but matcha releases its caffeine more slowly into the bloodstream thanks to the presence of L-theanine. This results in sustained energy without the spikes and crashes often associated with coffee. Additionally, matcha provides a more balanced mental focus and is less acidic, making it easier on the stomach.

The Rising Popularity of Matcha in the GCC

In recent years, matcha has surged in popularity across the GCC, particularly among the younger generation and health-conscious consumers. As wellness trends continue to grow, matcha has become a go-to choice, and its appeal has made it a staple in coffee shops, cafes, and restaurants throughout the region.

AIYA: Bringing Premium Matcha to the UAE

As matcha gains momentum in the region, the launch of AIYA in the GCC is a game-changer for those seeking premium ceremonial-grade matcha. This Japan’s leading matcha manufacturer has been a pioneer in matcha production since 1888 and is renowned for its dedication to quality and innovation, solidifying its place as a market leader.

There has never been a better time for matcha enthusiasts to find a product that ticks all the boxes for the ideal ceremonial-grade matcha: superior taste, rich in antioxidants, and produced under the strictest agricultural standards.

For me, discovering AIYA’s matcha feels like entering another rabbit hole, similar to my journey into specialty coffee. Maybe I should start a new blog and call it The Need for Matcha. What do you think?