Matcha is a finely ground powder made from specially grown green tea leaves. Unlike ordinary green tea, where the leaves are steeped and removed, with matcha you whisk the powder into water and drink the whole leaf. It has a bright green colour and a fresh, grassy, slightly sweet taste. Here's how to make it the traditional way, plus six more easy ways to use it.

1. Traditional whisked matcha

1. Sift 1 to 2 g (about 1/2 to 1 teaspoon) of matcha into a bowl to remove lumps.
2. Add a splash of hot water and mix to a smooth paste.
3. Add about 70 to 80 ml of water heated to 70 to 80°C. Boiling water makes matcha taste bitter, so let the kettle cool for a few minutes.
4. Whisk briskly in a zigzag "M" or "W" motion for 15 to 20 seconds until a fine froth forms on top. A bamboo whisk (chasen) works best, but a small electric milk frother is fine.

2. Matcha latte

Whisk 1 teaspoon of matcha with a splash of hot (not boiling) water to a smooth paste, then top up with steamed or frothed milk. Oat milk is a popular choice. Sweeten with honey or maple syrup if you like.

3. Iced matcha latte

Whisk 1 teaspoon of matcha with 2 tablespoons of warm water until smooth. Pour over a glass of ice and cold milk, and stir.

4. Matcha smoothie

Blend 1 teaspoon of matcha with a frozen banana, a handful of spinach, a spoonful of nut butter and 250 ml of milk.

5. Matcha baking

Sift 1 to 2 teaspoons of matcha into the flour for cookies, sponge cakes, muffins or shortbread. It pairs beautifully with white chocolate, lemon and raspberry, and gives bakes a vivid green colour.

6. Matcha overnight oats

Stir 1/2 teaspoon of matcha into your oats, milk and yoghurt before chilling overnight. Top with berries and a drizzle of honey.

7. Matcha lemonade

Whisk 1 teaspoon of matcha with a little cold water, then add to a glass of sparkling water with lemon juice, honey and ice.

Tips for using matcha

• Always sift matcha first: it clumps easily.
• Use water below boiling to avoid bitterness.
• Store the pouch sealed in a cool, dark place, or in the fridge once opened, to keep its colour and flavour.

Good to know

Matcha contains caffeine. If you're pregnant or breastfeeding, or you've been advised to limit caffeine, include it in your daily total. The NHS advises no more than 200 mg of caffeine a day during pregnancy. Matcha isn't recommended for children.

Shop our Organic Matcha Green Tea Powder, or browse more green superfoods.