For this round of juice-free drinks, I knew I wanted to try to make another matcha drink recipe for this month. I really like the grassy, naturally sweet flavor of Matcha and I think it pairs well with so many different flavors, such as lime, lavender, and roses. So, I thought for this episode, I would share another favorite matcha flavor pairing of mine.
The mint adds a nice cooling sensation, amplifying the cold refreshingness of the drink. The mint flavor itself is quite subtle, but it definitely adds to the overall naturally sweet grassy flavors of the matcha. Though, if you wish to add some more mintiness, you can of course use some more mint leaves or you can substitute the mint with 1/4 tsp mint extract.
But, regardless of if you wish to emphasize the minty freshness of the drink with the extract or keep it subtle with the fresh mint, this simple-to-make drink will be a quick, refreshing way to cool off on a hot summer day.
Ingredients:
- 1-2 tsp matcha powder (I recommend using ceremonial grade for the best color, but universal/culinary grade should work fine as well)
- 1/4 cup hot water (~175-180°F/80-82°C)
- 1 cup cold milk (any type of milk should work, so use your favorite)
- 2-3 fresh mint leaves and some for garnish
- 1-2 tsp sugar, honey, maple syrup, or agave syrup (for optional sweetness)
- Some Ice cubes
Step 1: Prepare Matcha & Add Sweetner, If Desired
First, we’ll prepare the hot water for the matcha, so in a water heater or using your favorite method, warm up your water to ~175-180°F/80-82°C.
Then, while we wait for the water, sift your matcha into a bowl.
And then once your water is hot, whisk it into your matcha for about 30 seconds, until it’s smooth and frothy.
Then, if you wish to add some sweetness, I recommend mixing in your sweetener of choice now, since the heat will allow it to dissolve easier.
Step 2: Add Mint to Serving Glass & Then Add Ice Cubes & Milk; Add Frothed Matcha on Top
Next, grab your serving glass and then give your mint a solid smack to release the oils, and add it into your serving glass along with your ice cubes and milk, giving it a stir to mix the flavors.
Your matcha should be a little less dense than the milk since we frothed it, so you can achieve a layered effect by slowly pouring the mixed matcha over the milk and ice. But if it doesn’t layer properly, it’s fine since we’ll be mixing it together when we drink it anyway.
Step 3: Garnish w/ Mint as Desired, & Enjoy!
Then, once the drink is to your liking, garnish your drink with some more mint, if desired, and with that, your Mint Matcha Latte is ready to drink.