Matcha is a green tea that became popular in 8th century China and has been used widely in both Chinese and Japanese culture ever since. We share easy ways on how to use matcha.  

Going Green

It has recently been introduced into western culture and is often enjoyed as a latte but is traditionally brewed with water. Matcha has a unique savoury, earthy taste, and many health benefits.  

It is also often used in cooking and baking to add extra depth to dishes. Want to switch up your pastas or create a delicious butter or dip? Include matcha to the mix and you will not be sorry! 

Matcha pancakes with whipped coconut cream

SERVES 4–6 // COOKING TIME 40 min  

Give your pancakes a flavour – and health – boost with just one tablespoon of matcha. 

INGREDIENTS

For the pancakes
2 cups flour
4 tsp baking powder
1 Tbsp matcha
½ tsp salt
1 cup milk
2 eggs
5 Tbsp sugar
1½ Tbsp coconut oil, melted, plus extra for frying
1 tsp vanilla essence 

For the whipped coconut cream
400 ml coconut cream, refrigerated overnight
1 cup icing sugar
Toasted coconut flakes, to serve 

METHOD

For the pancakes
1. Sift together the flour, baking powder, matcha and salt.
2. Whisk together the milk, eggs, sugar, coconut oil and vanilla essence.
3. Make a well in the dry ingredients. Add the wet ingredients, whisking until smooth.
4. Heat the coconut oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add 2 Tbsp batter and fry for 2 minutes, then flip and fry for 2 minutes. 

For the whipped coconut cream
1. Separate the thick white coconut cream from the clear liquid.
2. Whisk the sugar and vanilla essence into the coconut cream.
3. Serve the matcha pancakes with whipped coconut cream on the side and a sprinkle of coconut flakes. 

Matcha Muffins

matcha powder
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/8 tsp salt
1/2 cup melted butter
1/2 cup sugar
1 large egg 

METHOD

1. Preheat oven to 180°C.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the matcha, salt, baking powder and flour.
3. In a separate bowl, mix butter, sugar, eggs until light and fluffy.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the butter-egg mixture. Mix to form a soft batter.
5. Spoon the batter into a greased muffin tray and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the centre of a muffin comes out
6. clean.
7. Serve warm.