All About Koicha The Traditional, Ceremonial Way To Prepare Matcha.

Cover Preparing koicha (thick) matcha in molo's float matcha bowl. The proportions and form of the (2266x2266)

Table of Contents

• What is Koicha?
• How to Prepare Koicha
• What Makes Koicha Different from Usucha?
• What is the Best Matcha for Koicha?
• What are the Health Benefits of Koicha?

What is Koicha?

Koicha is a type of matcha green tea that is prepared using a higher ratio of matcha powder to water than usucha, which is the more commonly consumed thin matcha. Koicha is typically prepared using 3 to 4 times the amount of matcha powder as usucha, resulting in a thicker, creamier, and sweeter tea.

How to Prepare Koicha

Preparing koicha requires a different technique than usucha due to the thicker consistency of the tea. Here are the steps to prepare koicha:

1. Start by sifting 4 grams of koicha-grade matcha powder into a small bowl.
2. Add 30 ml of hot water (at a temperature of 80°C) to the bowl.
3. Using a bamboo whisk, vigorously whisk the matcha and water together in a back-and-forth motion until the mixture becomes a smooth paste. This should take about 30 to 40 seconds.
4. Once the paste is formed, add an additional 70 ml of hot water to the bowl.
5. Using the bamboo whisk, whisk the tea in a circular motion until it becomes smooth and frothy. This should take another 30 to 40 seconds.
6. Pour the tea into a small teacup and enjoy.

What Makes Koicha Different from Usucha?

The primary difference between koicha and usucha is the ratio of matcha powder to water used in preparation. Koicha uses a higher amount of matcha powder, resulting in a thicker and creamier consistency. Usucha, on the other hand, uses a lower amount of matcha powder and more water, resulting in a thinner and frothier consistency.

What is the Best Matcha for Koicha?

The best matcha for koicha is a high-quality, ceremonial-grade matcha. Look for matcha that is made from shade-grown tea leaves and stone-ground into a fine powder. The color of the matcha should be a vibrant green, indicating that it is fresh and of high quality. Some popular brands of matcha for koicha include Ippodo Tea Co., Uji Matcha, and Marukyu-Koyamaen.

What are the Health Benefits of Koicha?

Koicha, like other types of matcha green tea, is rich in antioxidants called catechins. These antioxidants have been shown to have a variety of health benefits, including reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Matcha also contains the amino acid L-theanine, which promotes relaxation and reduces stress. Additionally, matcha has been shown to boost metabolism and promote weight loss.

Conclusion

Koicha is a delicious and healthy way to enjoy matcha green tea. By using a higher ratio of matcha powder to water, koicha offers a thicker and creamier consistency than usucha, along with a unique and complex flavor profile. To prepare koicha, use high-quality, ceremonial-grade matcha and follow the specific preparation steps outlined above. Whether you are looking for a new tea to try or a way to reap the health benefits of matcha, koicha is definitely worth exploring.