Looking to switch up your afternoon routine? If you typically reach for a latte to combat the afternoon slump, let me introduce you to something equally energizing but lighter and more refreshing—Matcha Soda. This vibrant, effervescent drink delivers a gentle caffeine boost while offering unique health benefits, especially when using ceremonial-grade matcha.
Why Ceremonial Matcha Over Culinary Grade?
Ceremonial-grade matcha is the highest quality matcha, traditionally used in Japanese tea ceremonies. Here’s why it stands out:
- Smooth Taste: Made from the youngest, shade-grown tea leaves, ceremonial matcha has a naturally sweet, delicate flavor without the bitterness of culinary-grade matcha.
- Nutrient-Rich: It’s richer in antioxidants, particularly EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate), which supports metabolism, boosts immunity, and reduces inflammation.
- Enhanced Calm Focus: Contains more L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes relaxation and balances caffeine’s stimulating effects, giving you calm, sustained energy.
My favorite is from Pique Tea – and this link gets you 15% off plus free shipping for life, and a starter kit which includes the beaker and frother.
How to Make the Perfect Matcha Soda
This simple recipe combines earthy matcha with sparkling water for a refreshing, bubbly treat.
Ingredients:
- 2 tsp ceremonial-grade matcha
- 1-2 oz hot water (not boiling, around 175°F)
- 1 tsp honey, maple syrup, or date syrup (your choice of natural sweetener)
- Ice cubes
- Sparkling water (I love Recess Strawberry Rose for its magnesium and adaptogens!)
Instructions:
- Whisk the Matcha:
- Place 2 teaspoons of ceremonial matcha in a bowl.
- Add 1-2 ounces of hot water.
- Whisk vigorously in a zig-zag motion until smooth and frothy.
- Shortcut: Use a handheld frother for an easy, clump-free mix—perfect if you’re short on time!
- Sweeten It Up:
- Stir in 1 teaspoon of your preferred natural sweetener—honey, maple syrup, or date syrup—for a hint of balanced sweetness.
- Build the Soda:
- Fill a glass with ice cubes.
- Pour the whisked matcha over the ice.
- Add Sparkle:
- Top with your favorite sparkling water. Recess Strawberry Rose adds a subtle fruity flavor, plus magnesium and adaptogens that help ease stress and enhance the matcha’s benefits.
Why I Love Recess Sparkling Water
Recess isn’t just any sparkling water—it’s formulated with adaptogens and magnesium, which complement matcha beautifully:
- Magnesium: Helps relax muscles and reduce stress.
- Adaptogens: Natural herbs like Ashwagandha or L-theanine in Recess support mental clarity and resilience, which helps balance out caffeine jitters.
Why Try This Matcha Soda?
- Gentle Energy Boost: Unlike a full-blown latte, this drink offers sustained energy without the crash, thanks to matcha’s natural combination of caffeine and L-theanine.
- Refreshing and Hydrating: The sparkling water adds effervescence, making it feel light and crisp—perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up.
- Health Benefits: Packed with antioxidants and adaptogens, it supports overall well-being.
Ready to switch up your afternoon routine? This matcha soda might just become your new favorite. Give it a try and let me know what you think!
Would love to hear your favorite matcha combinations—comment below! 🍵✨
