FAQs
1. How is Kagoshima Matcha different from Okayama Matcha?
Kagoshima Matcha – “Peaceful Heart 心静 (Shin-sei)”
- Naturally sweet, low bitterness
- Smooth, gentle, calming
- Soft aftertaste with subtle umami
- Perfect for beginners & everyday mindful moments
Okayama Matcha – “Vitality 活力 (Katsuryoku)”
- Stronger, richer flavor
- Higher umami & astringency
- Bold aroma and complexity
- Stands up well with milk or sweeteners
- Ideal for those who enjoy a strong, energizing cup
2. What is Hōjicha?
Hōjicha is roasted Japanese green tea, traditionally fired at high heat to create a warm, nutty, naturally sweet flavour.
It has very low caffeine and a smooth, comforting profile — perfect for evenings or for anyone sensitive to caffeine.
3. What is Cold Whisking?
Cold whisking is the method of preparing matcha for iced drinks. To keep the flavour smooth and avoid clumping:
How to cold whisk:
- Whisk matcha with 15 ml of 70–80°C hot water to dissolve and activate the flavour.
- Add cold milk or cold water.
- Whisk or froth again until smooth, then add ice.
This ensures a clean, lump-free, flavourful iced matcha.
4. What is Microfoam?
Microfoam is the fine, silky foam that forms on top of properly whisked matcha. It’s prized among matcha lovers because it:
- Creates a smoother, softer mouthfeel
- Enhances comfort and creaminess
- Makes the drink feel more “ceremonial”
Is it necessary? Not at all — it’s a preference. Matcha is delicious with or without microfoam.
5. What is a Chawan?
A Chawan is a traditional Japanese matcha bowl.
Its wide shape makes whisking easier, helping air flow through the matcha to create microfoam.
7. Can I use a milk frother instead of a bamboo whisk?
Yes. A frother is a convenient alternative and works well for lattes, especially if you’re in a hurry. However, a bamboo whisk gives the smoothest texture and the most authentic matcha experience.
8. What are common matcha mistakes?
Not sifting the matcha Sifting is important — it prevents clumps and helps the matcha blend easily with water.
Using boiling water (100°C) This extracts too many tannins and catechins, causing bitterness and astringency. Always use 70–80°C water.
Not measuring correctly A measuring spoon gives convenience, but not perfect accuracy. For those who want consistent taste every time, many matcha enthusiasts use a high-sensitivity digital scale (especially for café-style drinks).
Whisking too gently You need a fast “M–shaped motion” to create microfoam.
Skipping the paste step Always whisk matcha with a small amount of hot water first before adding milk or more liquid.
9. What is Usucha?
Usucha (薄茶) means “thin tea” in Japanese.
It is the most common and modern way of drinking matcha — light, smooth, and easy to enjoy every day.
Characteristics of Usucha:
- Made with 2 g of matcha
- Whisked with 70–80 ml of hot water
- Texture is smooth and airy, with light microfoam
- Flavor is gentle, refreshing, and not too strong
Who is it for?
Perfect for beginners or anyone who prefers a balanced, easy-to-drink matcha.
10. When is Usucha used?
- Daily matcha
- Cafés and lattes
- Wellness routines
- Ceremonial-style matcha at home
11. What is Koicha?
Koicha (濃茶) means “thick tea” in Japanese. It is the traditional, ceremonial style of matcha — rich, deep, and luxuriously concentrated.
Characteristics of Koicha:
- Made with 4–6 g of high-grade ceremonial matcha
- Mixed (not whisked) with about 20–30 ml of hot water
- Texture is thick, smooth, and syrupy
- Flavour is bold with strong umami and almost no foam
Who is it for?
- Matcha connoisseurs
- Ceremonial practitioners
- Those who enjoy rich, intense umami
12. When is Koicha used?
- Traditional Japanese tea ceremonies
- Special occasions
- When appreciating high-quality, shaded matcha
13. How can I contact the Team at Hallnara?
We’re here to help with orders, collaborations, or any matcha questions.
- WhatsApp: +971 56 173 2463
- Phone Call: +971 50 995 5360
- Email: marketing@hallnara.com