How to Make Matcha Taste Better: Easy Tips for a Perfect Cup
Discover simple and effective ways on how to make matcha taste better with natural ingredients and techniques. Learn how to enjoy matcha even if you don’t love it yet!
Matcha is celebrated for its vibrant green color and health benefits, but if you’re new to it, you might be wondering how to make matcha taste better. The earthy, sometimes bitter flavor can be an acquired taste. Fortunately, a few simple tricks can transform your matcha experience from “meh” to “amazing.”
Whether you’re trying to figure out how to make matcha less bitter or how to sweeten matcha without sugar, this guide has you covered. Let’s dive in!
Choose High-Quality Matcha Powder
One of the biggest reasons matcha might not taste great is because of the quality. Culinary-grade matcha is often used for baking and can taste quite bitter when prepared as a drink. If you’re planning to enjoy it as a tea or latte, opt for ceremonial-grade matcha.
When searching for the best matcha, look for:
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Bright, vibrant green color
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Fine texture (like baby powder)
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A light, sweet grassy aroma
If you’re asking why does my matcha taste fishy, the answer often lies in low-quality matcha or improper storage.
Use the Right Water Temperature
Boiling water and matcha do not mix well. If you pour boiling water over your delicate matcha powder, you’ll end up with a bitter, harsh flavor.
For the best results:
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Heat water to about 160°F to 175°F (70°C to 80°C).
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Allow boiled water to cool for a minute or two before mixing.
This small step makes a huge difference when learning how to make matcha taste better.
Sweeten Your Matcha Naturally
If you’re looking for natural ways to sweeten matcha, there are plenty of options that enhance flavor without adding refined sugar:
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Honey: Adds a floral sweetness.
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Agave syrup: A mild, neutral sweetener.
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Maple syrup: Gives a rich, cozy note, especially nice in iced matcha lattes.
Start small—matcha should still have its signature earthy taste, just balanced better.
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Mix with Milk for a Creamier Taste
Another popular solution for how to make matcha taste better for beginners is to turn it into a matcha latte. Milk softens the strong flavor and creates a smooth, creamy texture that’s easier for many to enjoy.
You can use:
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Dairy milk
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Almond milk
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Oat milk (popular for its natural sweetness)
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Coconut milk (for a tropical twist)
Just whisk your matcha powder with a small amount of water to make a paste before adding warm milk.
Pro tip: Froth your milk for that coffee shop experience at home!
Add Flavors That Complement Matcha
Adding complementary flavors is a genius trick if you’re searching for ways to make matcha taste good without overpowering it.
Here are a few ideas:
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Vanilla extract: A few drops can mellow the bitterness.
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Cinnamon: Adds warmth and balances the grassy notes.
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Lemon: Brightens and lifts the matcha flavor.
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Mint leaves: Give your matcha a refreshing edge.
Experiment to find your favorite combination!
Proper Whisking Technique
If you’ve ever had gritty, clumpy matcha, it could be because it wasn’t whisked correctly. Using a traditional bamboo whisk, called a chasen, helps create a smooth, frothy drink.
When whisking:
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Use a zig-zag “M” motion.
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Avoid stirring in circles.
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Whisk briskly until you see a nice foam layer on top.
Learning how to whisk matcha properly not only improves the taste but also enhances the overall experience.
Try Cold Brew Matcha
For a super refreshing and mild option, try cold brew matcha. This method is excellent for people looking for how to make matcha taste less bitter naturally.
Here’s how:
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Add 1 teaspoon of matcha to a bottle of cold water.
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Shake vigorously for 30 seconds to 1 minute.
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Enjoy immediately or refrigerate for later.
Cold brew tends to be smoother and sweeter without any need for sweeteners or milk.
Learning how to make matcha taste better is all about quality ingredients, technique, and a little creativity. Whether you sweeten it naturally, whisk it properly, or experiment with flavors like vanilla or mint, you’ll find a method that turns your cup of matcha into a true treat.
Try a few of these ideas and discover just how enjoyable matcha can be!