The matcha shot is made up of hot water and matcha. It’s called a “matcha shot” because it resembles an espresso shot. Just like an espresso, the matcha shot starts with a concentrated hit of matcha that jolts you awake before ending in a pleasant lingering after taste.
Introducing the matcha shot
It is one of the newer ways to drink matcha that emerged as people tried to find new methods outside of the traditional usucha and koicha. It makes for a convenient matcha energy drink. Interestingly, the ratio of water to matcha used in the matcha shot is about the same as usucha.
What does the matcha shot taste like?
The matcha shot is not for everyone, especially people who have just started to drink matcha. The matcha shot is much more concentrated and may be too much to handle. If you’re new to matcha but looking for a matcha energy drink, we recommend that you consider trying cold brew or matcha tea instead.
- Because it is made with a thicker concentration of matcha, the matcha shot will taste quite intense at first (similar to 70% dark chocolate).
- It will be quite similar to the feeling of downing an espresso shot. There will be a bold opening taste (note however that it should feel “rich” rather than sour).
- After a second, any intensity should transform into a pleasant, umami aftertaste which lingers on the palate.
How much caffeine is there in a matcha shot and can we use it as a matcha energy drink?
The matcha shot makes for a great matcha energy drink. The caffeine content in matcha really depends on how much matcha powder you use. 1 tsp of matcha powder will contain approximately 70 mg of caffeine. Therefore, a matcha shot will have approximately 70 mg of caffeine. For comparison, a standard double espresso will have about 80mg of caffeine.
The key difference between coffee and matcha is that the caffeine in matcha will be released slowly thanks to the presence of L-theanine. That means that even though the caffeine in matcha is similar to espresso, you will only experience about an hour of increased focus and energy after drinking espresso. However, your caffeine boost will last for about 4 hours with a matcha shot.
The matcha shot has largely replaced our post-lunch coffee. We gulp down a matcha shot this keeps us energized and focused for the rest of the work day. The L-theanine in matcha also helps us to calm down.
What kind of matcha powder should you use to make a matcha shot?
You will need to buy good quality matcha because you are only mixing it with water. At this concentration, the matcha will be more bitter than usual.
- It goes without saying, but please do not use a “culinary grade matcha” for matcha shots.
- Try using the middle range ceremonial grades. These usually cost at least and $22 an ounce and the matcha powder should have a bright green color.
- A standard serving is 1 tsp, or 2 grams of matcha.
What tools do you need to make a matcha shot?
No bamboo whisk is required for a matcha shot. All you will need is a small glass jar that can be closed. If you have a small glass bottle, use that. If not, you can recycle a 4 oz glass baby food jar. We have a 3 oz glass jar lying around which we have repurposed into our matcha shot mixer.
How to make a matcha shot
Makes a single shot of matcha
Ingredients
- 1 tsp matcha powder
- 2.5 to 3.5 oz/ 70 to 100 ml hot water at a temperature of 175F (80C). Adjust the amount of water to your liking after testing this recipe out. Also works with cold water.
Directions
1. Measure out 1 tsp of matcha and 2.5 to 3.5 oz (70 to 100 ml) of 175F (80C) water. Adjust the water amount according to your taste. Ensure that the water is not boiling. If it is freshly boiled, let the water cool for 5 minutes.
2. Pour the water into the small jar.
3. Add the matcha and close the jar.
4. Shake it vigorously for about 30 seconds If there are still some visible clumps, keep shaking until the clumps are completely dissolved.
5. Pour your matcha energy drink into a glass and enjoy.