Candice Kumai is the author of six books, including Kintsugi Wellness, and the host of the Wabi Sabi podcast. Here, she shares why she begins her mornings with matcha—and shares one of her favorite recipes.
The most important part of a matcha tea ceremony is its symbolism. My long-time mentor and purveyor of matcha and green tea, Rona Tison of Ito En, has been teaching me the importance of the Chado or (Sado) tea ceremony from our own Japanese heritage for a decade. I also learned from my Japanese grandmother, who has since passed; my Great-Auntie Takuko still teaches me the traditions of matcha in the mountains of the countryside of Japan. I’ve traveled to the farmers and purveyors of matcha in Shiga, Uji, Tokyo, Kyoto, Kagoshima and Kyushu to witness the cultivating and processing of the final product—all in the name of studying matcha from organic farmers. As our Japanese population dwindles, it is imperative and important that we take our culture seriously and share information from the Japanese, by the Japanese, to the general public.
I prefer making matcha the old-fashioned way, with a traditional bowl and whisk, while channeling my grandmother’s energy. I meditate with two comfy meditation pillows for 30 minutes just after making my matcha. This morning ritual has been the highlight of my day for almost 10 years. Matcha can keep you focused, calm, and steady—which has been very helpful as I’ve been writing my seventh book! If you’re looking for a matcha recipe to keep you cozy during the winter months, this coconut matcha latte is among my favorites. I’ve even included a blender method in case you don’t have the traditional accessories.
Homemade Matcha Coconut Latte
Traditionally, you would make matcha with a chasen (a bamboo whisk) and 175-185 degree water. Today, we are going to try it in a Vitamix—as long as you’re safe and make sure the power is on low. 😉
Serves 2
- 2 tsp high-quality matcha (my favorite brand is Matcha Love)
- 2 cups just under boiling water (175-185 degrees F)
- 1-2 tablespoons coconut manna/coconut butter (you can find a jar of this at a health food store)
- 1/4 cup almond milk (unsweetened is best)
- Sweetener (optional; I prefer mine unsweetened)
Place matcha powder in a bone-dry Vitamix. Add hot water and coconut manna/butter and carefully blend on low; after a few seconds, carefully increase to medium-high power. Blend for about 10-15 additional seconds. Add sweetener if desired. Pour into desired serving cups and pour your fave almond milk into the side of the bowl to top off. Drink!