Matcha Green Tea Cocktail Recipe

The Matcha Green Tea Cocktail is a modern twist on traditional Japanese tea ceremonies, combining the earthy flavors of matcha with the refreshing taste of a cocktail. This drink is perfect for those who appreciate the health benefits of green tea and enjoy unique, sophisticated flavors in their cocktails.

• Matcha green tea has been a staple in Japanese culture for centuries, used in traditional tea ceremonies.
• The cocktail version gained popularity in recent years, as mixologists began experimenting with unique flavors and ingredients.
• This drink is perfect for health-conscious individuals, as matcha is known for its antioxidant properties.

The Matcha Green Tea Cocktail offers a unique, earthy flavor profile with a hint of sweetness. The matcha provides a slightly bitter, vegetal taste, while the added ingredients create a well-balanced, refreshing, and slightly creamy drink.

• Matcha is a type of green tea that is ground into a fine powder, providing a more concentrated flavor and higher levels of antioxidants compared to traditional green tea.
• The vibrant green color of matcha comes from the high levels of chlorophyll in the tea leaves.
• In traditional Japanese tea ceremonies, matcha is prepared using a bamboo whisk called a chasen, which helps to create a frothy texture.

1. In a small bowl, whisk the matcha green tea powder with the hot water until smooth and frothy.
2. In a cocktail shaker, combine the matcha mixture, vodka, honey syrup, lemon juice, and egg white.
3. Dry shake (without ice) for about 10 seconds to emulsify the egg white.
4. Add ice to the shaker and shake again for another 10-15 seconds until well chilled.
5. Strain the cocktail into a chilled coupe glass.
6. Garnish with mint leaves.

• Make sure to use high-quality matcha powder for the best flavor and color.
• To create a frothy texture, shake the cocktail vigorously during both the dry shake and the shake with ice.
• If you don't have a cocktail shaker, you can use a mason jar with a tight-fitting lid.

Appetizers

• Sushi and Sashimi: The delicate flavors of raw fish are enhanced by the herbaceous notes of matcha and the bright citrus in the cocktail.
• Tempura Vegetables: The light and crisp nature of tempura complements the cocktail's frothy texture and green tea flavor.
• Cheese Plate: Especially with mild, creamy cheeses like Brie or Camembert, which provide a nice contrast.

Desserts

• Lemon Tart: Echoing the lemon in the cocktail, a tangy lemon tart would make for a sublime pairing.
• White Chocolate: The sweetness of white chocolate goes pleasantly with the subtle bitterness of matcha.
• Berry Fruit Salad: The freshness of the berries will pair nicely with the vibrancy of the lemon and the earthiness of the matcha.

Other Drinks

• Chilled Jasmine Tea: For a non-alcoholic companion that complements the cocktail's tea notes.
• Sake: To maintain a Japanese theme, while the smooth rice wine aligns well with the cocktail's flavors.

• For a non-alcoholic version, replace the vodka with an equal amount of cold water or coconut water.
• If you don't have honey syrup, you can use simple syrup or agave nectar as a substitute.

Earl Grey Infusion

• Substitute vodka with Earl Grey tea-infused gin. Add a dash of vanilla extract. Why? It'll lend a floral note with a hint of citrus bergamot that pairs interestingly with matcha.

Matcha Mule

• Replace lemon juice with lime juice. Swap honey syrup with ginger beer (top after shaking). What's up? You've got a green twist on the classic Moscow mule, with a ginger zing!

Creamy Matcha Delight

• Add 1 oz of coconut milk. Switch honey syrup with simple syrup. So? It's a creamier, tropical experience that makes the matcha less front-and-center and more of a team player.