Main Differences between Matcha Tea and Green Tea

As you buy your favorite green tea, you might make a mistake of getting Matcha instead of what you really want or vice versa. You would not know it unless you actually brewed the tea, and notice that it acquires different taste rather than what you were expecting.

It is typically confusing having the same color, and the same idea firsthand.

To prevent this mistake in the long run, read ahead and find out the difference between the two teas that seem lookalike.

Matcha vs. Green Tea

Many do not understand the difference between both teas, especially in terms of classification. It is as if matcha is green tea because of color, and so as the latter because of its characteristics. In this segment, you would know their similarities and differences based on their component.

Origin

The same plant named Camellia sinensis produces both teas. This means that it is the underlying reason unto why it is mostly associated with one another. Nevertheless, I can assure you that the final product has many differences in terms of variables, even with this occurrence.

Packaging

The main difference can be seen based on their packaging. Specifically, Matcha tea has been grounded into a fine powder and is ensured to be 100 percent green tea leaves. It is known to be more concentrated than any other green tea, which is why you would only need a little amount per cup.

Meanwhile, for regular green tea, they are mostly stored inside a tea bag. On the other hand, when drinking Matcha, you literally consume and make the most out of the tea leaf based on concentration!

Production

In terms of production, the regular green tea requires intricate processing than the Matcha as it needs to be left under the sun. The comparable process for Matcha is that it needs to be undercover to increase the level of amino acid and chlorophyll levels in the leaves before harvesting.

Color

For most, they can classify that it is both green, and that’s about it. In reality, Matcha powders appear to be brighter in color than any regular green tea, which can appear dark and close to brown in color. Due to the preparation process, the Matcha has high levels of chlorophyll resulting in vibrant colors.

Taste

Of course the taste of both is not the same. For regular green tea, it does have some grass undertones as flavor whereas the Matcha has more of a buttery flavor and is richer.

Most people prefer the taste of Matcha since other green teas have the tendency to taste bitter. Notwithstanding, if you prefer the latter taste to boost you up, it is the one for you!

Texture

As you look into it, you can see firsthand that both textures are different. For green tea, it is made up of crushed leaves that appear gritty. Therefore, it is mostly stored in tea bags or needs filtration. Meanwhile, Match powder has a fine powder texture that appears smooth to touch.

Nutrition

If you compare both teas in terms of nutritional benefits, the Matcha powder shines more than any regular green teas. For scale, you would need to drink at least 15 cups of green tea which is equal to a single cup of Matcha tea.

Since it is made with grinding the entire leaf, none of it is wasted unlike green teas where some of the nutrients get tossed out by a tea bag.

Initial preparation

For green tea, it is mostly boiled up to 212 degrees Fahrenheit. Meanwhile, Matcha powder only needs 175 degrees Fahrenheit.

Harvesting

The leaves are always harvested by hand for Matcha powder. It is important that only the leaves are stored, not any additional stems. Then, it is grounded into fine Matcha powder.

On the contrary, green teas are made up of steeping parts of the actual leaf submerged in hot water.

The Difference of Both Teas Based on the Amount

Although it is derived from the same plant, the final product is different based on numerous quantity taken into account. To know more, here are some of the variables:

Polyphenols

It is a form of micro-nutrients and beneficial for the body. It is composed of antioxidants and other wellbeing that your body will surely need. Specifically, it improves digestions, diabetes, and other cardiovascular diseases.

For green tea, it amounts up to 7 milligrams. Meanwhile, Matcha is at 99 milligrams.

Catechins

This is often associated with health benefits such as increased metabolism and endurance. Cancer and chronic conditions are avoided, which defines its importance. Besides, it also has antioxidants which get rids of the debris and toxins in your body.

Accordingly, green tea amounts to 63 milligrams whereas the Matcha has at most 134 milligrams per serving. With this, it is seconded that Matcha contains at least 136 times more antioxidant than the latter.

Amino Acids

It comprises an amino acid, particularly L-theanine. That is responsible for memory and overall creativity. Likewise, it contains the boost we need for the day without exceeding the limit. Specifically for Matcha, it carries at least 43 milligrams per cup while green tea has 3 milligrams per serving.

Final Words: Which is Better?

Now that you know the difference between the two, the thin line that separates you in terms of knowing which is better is your preference. Do you prefer a rich buttery taste or the bitter-like flavor that tastes somehow refreshing?

Either way, make sure you know the difference between the two when next time you buy your tea essentials.

Consequently, each tea has its ups and downs; it just depends on how you can take it. Most are often disappointed with the switch up as it does not reach their expectations, while some acquire the beautiful mistake of liking the two varieties in one go!

Still do not know which is the one for you? Assess and choose now!