Spiced Matcha Latte

The dark and cold days of winter are the perfect time for warm, feel good down to your bones lattes! The problem is that most lattes found at the market, grocery or cafe's are loaded with added sugars and nearly half the daily caloric intake for many people!

​For those who get my monthly newsletter, you may remember my warm turmeric latte from a while back, this recipe is a spin on that one!

I discovered matcha (Encha brand, ceremonial grade is my favorite) a few years back and it's been a staple in my diet ever since, especially when I want a warm alternative to coffee.

What is Matcha? in short, it's finely ground powder of specially grown and processed green tea leaves. 

Do I need anything special for making a matcha beverage? while not necessarily required, a bamboo whisk allows you to easily whisk the powder into the hot liquid and the process itself of whisking is, if you allow it, a very meditative process.  A tea scoop is also a preferred way to measure the tea powder, but you can just as easily use a teaspoon. And lastly, a bowl or cup that allows you to thoroughly whisk without splashing the contents onto your counter! *

*If you use a mug rather than an 'official bowl', I suggest putting just a small amount of hot liquid into the powder first to whisk thoroughly, then once you've created the foam add the remainder of your liquid and gently whisk again.

A few of the health benefits of matcha, include:

• rich in antioxidants that are often associated with protection against heart disease, cancer, as well as better blood sugar regulation, blood pressure reduction, lowering of 'bad' cholesterol, helps with inflammation, anti-aging and can boost metabolism;

• the process of whisking allows you to enter a meditative moment, even if only briefly, to calm your mind to focus on the moment;
• matcha is not just used in warm beverages there are many ways to incorporate matcha into your cooking and baking or simply add a scoop to your yogurt, smoothie, granola, chia seed pudding or oatmeal.

Hot or cold,  this recipe adds a bit of spice to your usual latte.

2-4 oz water, boiling (ounces will vary depending on the size of mug being used, I don't usually measure, just use a visual gauge)
1-2 tea scoops if using, or teaspoons, of your preferred matcha powder
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon powder
1/8 teaspoon turmeric powder
1/8 teaspoon ginger powder
6-8 oz unsweetened non-dairy milk of choice, use one or a combination for more depth of flavor (coconut, almond, etc) 

* If desired, add a sweetener of choice (stevia, agave, honey for example)
* If desired, also add a scoop of your favorite collagen powder which is known to boost the appearance of skin, hair and nails and aids in the digestive process.
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Heat the water and the milk separately, once the water is boiling add it to your mug or bowl, whichever you are using, along with the matcha, cinnamon, turmeric and ginger and whisk away until a froth forms.  

Then gently add your warmed 'milk' of choice and stir.  Taste and add sweetener, if needed, accordingly.

If you prefer this cold once prepared, either pour over a tall glass of ice and serve, or chill for about 10 minutes, before serving.

Find a cozy spot to relax with your mug or glass and enjoy!

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