Tradition - Modern Sensibility Blooming in an Emerald Garden
Matcha is not just green tea powder. It is the spirit of the Orient, steeped in centuries of history, and a work of art in its delicate details. In Japanese tea ceremonies, matcha was more than just a beverage; it was a tool for spiritual cultivation and a companion on the journey towards enlightenment. Matcha, made by finely grinding tea leaves, offers a special experience that calms the mind with its deep aroma and subtly bitter taste, awakening the five senses.
Today, matcha has shed its traditional image and approached us in more diverse forms. Matcha desserts, reinterpreted with modern sensibility, are captivating Gen Z with their deep flavor and beautiful colors. The matcha photos decorating the SNS feeds of celebrities such as Hailey Bieber, Dua Lipa, and Jennie make the popularity of the Matchacore trend even more palpable.
History - The Scent of the Orient Colors the World
The history of matcha dates back over a thousand years. Matcha, which began in China during the Tang Dynasty, further developed through the Song Dynasty and was introduced to Japan in the 12th century, where it became an important element of the tea ceremony. The global matcha craze that started in 2024 is hotter than ever before. As the beautiful colors and health benefits of matcha have been publicized through SNS, young people around the world have begun to be captivated by matcha.
Examples of the matcha craze include Twosome Place's "Edible Matcha Affogato" exceeding 1.3 million sales and CU's Yonsei Milk matcha cream bread selling 10,000 units in one day. With more than 3.4 million matcha recipes shared on TikTok and more than 10 million #matcha hashtags used on Instagram, matcha is enjoying hot popularity online as well.
Preparation - The Breath of Tradition and Modern Harmony
The traditional matcha preparation method is very delicate and precise. Before harvesting, sunlight is blocked to increase amino acid content and reduce bitterness. The leaves are steamed, dried, and finely ground in a millstone to create matcha powder.
Matcha Latte Recipe: Sift 2g matcha powder into 200ml warm milk and mix well. Add sugar or syrup to taste and top with milk foam.
Matcha Basque Cheesecake: Mix 200g cream cheese, 80g sugar, 2 eggs, 100ml cream, and 5g matcha powder. Bake at 220°C for 20-25 minutes.
Food Story and How to Enjoy - Matchacore Colors Daily Life
The Matchacore trend means a lifestyle that incorporates the sensibility of matcha into daily life. It prefers minimalist and calm atmospheres and utilizes colors and materials that resemble nature. It values health and wellness and cherishes time for oneself.
When enjoying matcha desserts, SNS photos are a must. The key is to use natural light and organize the background neatly. Drinks that pair well with matcha include warm milk, Americano, and black tea.
Taste - Ecstasy Through Delicate Harmony
The taste of matcha is a harmony of bitterness, savoriness, and subtle sweetness. The first taste is bitter, but soon the savory flavor spreads throughout the mouth. The creamy texture of matcha desserts softly envelops the bitter taste and provides a blissful melting experience. The vivid green color of matcha gives us comfort and stability.
Recommended Places in Seoul
Matchacha - Seongsu-dong
Authentic matcha latte and ice cream made with matcha imported directly from Japan. Tea ceremony experience programs available.
Greentea Recipe - Yeonnam-dong
Various matcha desserts including matcha cake, tart, and tiramisu. Known for its cozy atmosphere.
Osulloc Tea House - Myeongdong/Insadong
Signature matcha roll cake and ice cream using Jeju green tea. Luxurious and sophisticated atmosphere.
Online Purchase Recommendations
Boseong Organic Matcha Powder
Organically grown matcha powder with deep, rich flavor and aroma.
Kyoto Uji Matcha Powder
Matcha from Japan's Kyoto Uji region, known for its delicate and soft taste.
Matcha Starter Kit
Includes matcha powder, whisk, and bowl for easy home preparation.