The blue matcha, a flower infusion from Thailand
Point of powdered tea leaves in the blue matcha, but ground petals of Butterfly Pea flowers, an Ayurvedic plant also called “Blue Pea”, “Butterfly Pea Flower” or “Clitoria ternatea” (in Latin). This is why we prefer to talk about an infusion, rather than tea. This perennial climbing plant from the Fabaceae family (like beans or wisteria), found in Southeast Asia, is renowned for its blue petals. Popular as a natural coloring in cooking recipes, it is used in latte, smoothie, ice cream or cake versions.
The matcha blue is it a tea matcha ?
Absolutely not. The matcha blue, is not a powdered green tea, and even less a tea matcha. These are products from different plants. For one the tea plant, for the other, a flower. Nevertheless, they have points in common, which can explain why the name matcha has been (abusively) chosen: these are colored powders, one green, the other blue, which are consumed in the same way, diluted in water, incorporated into cooking recipes, or into cosmetics (mask, soap, etc.). In Malaysia, the matcha Blue is thus integrated into a rice-based dish, which has become sky blue, called Nasi Kerabu. Whatever its use, we recommend that you opt for matcha organic blue, more respectful of the planet, and much better for your health.
What does the taste of matcha blue?
The Blue Matcha has a very mild floral and herbaceous taste. If you add a few drops of lemon, its color will change, as if by magic, from azure blue to dark purple (try it!). Note that there is also a “matcha rose”, made from dragon fruit powder, often originating from Indonesia. Its taste, much fruitier, would be comparable to a combination of kiwi, strawberry and watermelon.
What would be the benefits of matcha blue?
Thanks to its high zinc content, the matcha blue would produce a relaxing effect, but also an antioxidant (by protecting cells from oxidative stress), while making skin and hair shine. Virtues which may seem quite close to those attributed to tea matcha. This is also what can explain the connection between the two appellations. Tea matcha Japanese is also known for its antioxidants (which are not exactly the same as those present in blue matcha), but which also help to fight against aging, and have a soothing and anti-redness action on the skin. But real tea matcha Japanese mainly includes molecules specific to the tea plant (which the tea plant does not have matcha blue): theine which stimulates energy and cognitive functions, and theanine, an amino acid which reduces stress and has a relaxing effect.
Our opinion on the Blue Matcha
Fake teas matcha are legion on the market: matcha blue, matcha pink… There is no shortage of names. A way to differentiate them? Their color, their taste, their origin (Japanese for real) and… their price! Be careful of prices that are too low because the matcha due to its quality, it is a tea renowned for being sold at a higher price than others. To choose the right green tea powder, we recommend that you opt for a matcha organic. Indeed, the organic designation guarantees you a quality tea, pesticide-free and raised with respect for the environment due to the numerous quality controls carried out during production. To enjoy it in the best possible way, you will need a bowl and a whisk. Heat water to 75°C. This should not be too hot. Place the matcha at the bottom of the bowl, then carefully pour in the water. Then mix using the whisk so that the powder in the bowl diffuses. To whisk well, the whisk should barely touch the bowl. You can then add milk to it.
The Blue Matcha is therefore part of the family of fakes matcha and has nothing to do with its cousins green teas or black teas. This blue powder actually comes from flowers. Originally from Thailand, it is not a Japanese tea either. By drinking matcha blue, you will not have the same benefits as tea matcha classic. So grab your whisk and your bowl and enjoy!