Want to Enjoy Matcha but Don’t Have the Tools?
“I want to drink matcha, but buying a chasen (bamboo whisk) seems like too much…”
“Getting all the tea ceremony tools feels overwhelming…”
Don’t worry! You can actually enjoy authentic matcha using just a spoon or fork that you already have at home.
Time Required: About 3 minutes
Difficulty: ★☆☆☆☆ (Easy for beginners)
Required Tools: Items you already have at home
What You’ll Need
- Matcha powder
- Tea strainer (or fine mesh sieve)
- Mug or tea bowl
- Spoon or fork
- Hot water (70-80°C / 158-176°F)
About Bowl Size:
A matcha bowl around 12cm in diameter × 8cm in height works best.
If the bowl is too small, it’s difficult even for experienced practitioners. A large rice bowl or soup bowl works great!
Instructions: Complete in 3 Steps
Preparation: Sift the Matcha
First, sift the matcha through a tea strainer. This is the key to preventing lumps!
Matcha easily absorbs moisture and clumps, so sifting beforehand ensures a smooth result.
Step 1: Make a Paste
- Put 1 scant teaspoon of matcha (about 2g) into your bowl or mug
- Add a small amount of hot water (about 1-2 tablespoons)
- Mix quickly with a spoon, making sure no lumps remain
Step 2: Add More Water
Once you have a paste, add the remaining hot water (about 50-60ml = 3-4 tablespoons).
Step 3: Whisk
This is the important part. Using your spoon or fork, whisk in the following ways:
- Make quick circular motions
- Move in a figure-8 pattern
- Move rapidly up and down
Continue whisking for 30 seconds to 1 minute, and you’ll see some foam forming on the surface.
Tips for Delicious Matcha
- Water temperature of 70-80°C (158-176°F) is best: Water above 80°C tends to bring out bitterness, so let boiling water cool slightly before use
- The initial paste is key: Mixing thoroughly at the paste stage is the secret to getting foam
- Don’t apply too much pressure: Whisk rhythmically without forcing it for better foam
Common Problems and Solutions
Q. I have lumps remaining
→ Always sift the matcha through a tea strainer before use. Matcha easily absorbs moisture and clumps, so sifting beforehand prevents lumps. If you don’t have a tea strainer, use a fine mesh sieve.
Q. It won’t foam
→ The initial paste-making is crucial. Make sure to mix thoroughly with a small amount of water before adding more. The speed and duration of whisking also matter.
Q. It tastes bitter
→ The water temperature might be too high (above 80°C). Let boiling water cool before use. Also, you might be using too much matcha, so try starting with less.
For Those Who Want to Go Further
While you won’t achieve the beautiful foam of a chasen, this method still produces delicious matcha. As you get used to it, you’ll discover your own techniques.
For more foam:
- Use a milk frother (electric whisk)
- Try the shaker bottle method (details here)
Once you’re comfortable, why not try authentic tea ceremony tools?
Bamboo whisk ↓↓
Electric whisks don’t require technique, making them perfect for beginners.
Electric whisk↓↓
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q. Which is better, spoon or fork?
A. Forks create slightly more foam, but the difference isn’t significant. Use whichever feels more comfortable.
Q. Can I make iced matcha latte?
A. Yes! For cold matcha, make concentrated matcha first, then add ice. Since matcha doesn’t dissolve well in cold water, mix it into a paste with a small amount of hot water (1-2 tablespoons), then pour over ice. For matcha latte, add cold milk.
Q. Does the taste differ from chasen-whisked matcha?
A. The texture differs due to the foam, but the taste itself is quite similar. It’s still very enjoyable!
Q. Should I store matcha in the refrigerator?
A. Yes, after opening, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to preserve its flavor.
Comparison of Methods
| Method | Foam Quality | Convenience | Taste | Overall Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chasen (bamboo whisk) | ★★★★★ | ★★☆☆☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Spoon/Fork | ★★☆☆☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ |
| Milk Frother | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ |
| Shaker Bottle | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ |
Please give it a try at home!
If you have any questions, feel free to contact us.
Once you’ve mastered this method, why not experience authentic tea ceremony?
Book a tea ceremony experience at your location↓↓
