Curious about how to prepare matcha at home? In this guide, we walk you through the traditional method for making Japanese matcha green tea. You don’t need a lot of fancy tools—just a few essentials and high-quality matcha.

Before diving into matcha lattes, it’s important to master the foundational preparation. Making matcha shouldn’t be complicated or time-consuming, but it does require the right technique to bring out the best flavor and texture.

One key step? Sifting the matcha.

 This simple step helps prevent clumps and ensures a smooth, creamy cup. Watch closely to see how it's done. And remember: always choose vibrant, bright green matcha that smells fresh and grassy—that’s a sign of premium quality.

But what is matcha, exactly?

Matcha is a finely ground powder made from specially grown green tea leaves. For the last few weeks before harvest, the plants are shaded to boost chlorophyll and enhance their signature vivid green color. Unlike regular green tea, which is steeped and discarded, matcha is whisked into water and consumed whole—leaf and all. That means you get the full benefit of its nutrients, including powerful antioxidants and calming L-theanine.