Matcha: The Drink Of The Samurai

Matcha Tea is the champion of green tea and uses the young leaves of green tea that have a higher concentration of antioxidants. This means that it’s a potent superfood powder that’s great for your health.

Throughout history monks, samurai warriors, and Japanese royalty have enjoyed Matcha as part of their daily routines.

Buddhist monks, for example, have used Matcha for centuries to help keep them mentally focused, and to give them a mild, long-lasting energy boost during long periods of meditation.

THE PRE-BATTLE DRINK OF THE SAMURAI

Then during the 13th century, the monks introduced Matcha to samurai warriors as a pre-battle drink for increased energy and endurance for drawn out battles.

But not all Matcha teas are the same. The difference between ceremonial grade and food grade Matcha green tea lies in how they’ve been processed and sourced.

Ceremonial Grade Matcha is difficult to source. It is the highest quality Matcha tea you can get in the world, as it uses the young leaves of the green tea plant. Unlike food grade matcha tea, ceremonial grade is higher in antioxidants and provides a much smoother and richer taste than food grade matcha tea.

Food grade matcha tea is made from more mature green tea leaves and is often combined with other ingredients to make matcha-flavoured foods and drinks you see in cafes.

THE SAMURAI SMOOTHIE

This is my super healthy smoothie that will have your Dad bouncing off the walls with energy. It’s perfect to make for Father’s Day as it’s a potent blend of purely delicious ingredients he’ll love!

What’s Great About It?

The Samurai Smoothie contains a revitalising blend of pineapple, lime, coconut and Healthy Chef Organic Ceremonial Grade Matcha. Fresh pineapples naturally contain the enzyme bromelain, renowned for supporting digestion. The addition of Healthy Chef Protein supports sports performance, healthy weight, a strong immune system and healthy skin – with no bloating like traditional powders. Matcha has also been shown to increase mental alertness, and the ability to concentrate both during and after a workout.

1 cup ripe pineapple, frozen

1 cup ice

1 cup coconut water or coconut milk

1/4 teaspoon Healthy Chef Organic Matcha (green tea) powder

1 teaspoon mint

juice from 1/2 lime

1-2 tablespoon Healthy Chef WPI protein powder

Serves 1

COMBINE all the ingredients into a blender.

BLEND on high speed for about 1 minute until mixed through.

SPOON into a large glass.

POUR over 2 tablespoons coconut cream, if desired.

ENJOY!