Matcha Americano Recipe

Recipe at a Glance

One serving, 5 minutes total.

What You Need

- 1.5 tsp (3g) ceremonial or premium grade matcha - 2 oz (60ml) hot water at 175F (80C) for whisking - 6 oz (180ml) cold or hot water for diluting - Ice (for iced version) - Optional: a squeeze of lemon, a pinch of sea salt

How to Make It

Hot matcha americano: 1. Sift 1.5 tsp (3g) matcha into a bowl. 2. Add 2 oz of 175F water and whisk vigorously in a W motion for 20 to 30 seconds until frothy and concentrated. 3. Pour 6 oz of hot water (175F) into a mug. 4. Pour the matcha shot over the hot water. Stir gently.

Iced matcha americano: 1. Whisk matcha with 2 oz of 175F water as above. 2. Fill a glass with ice. 3. Add 6 oz of cold water. 4. Pour the matcha shot over the top. Stir before drinking.

Why Matcha Americano Instead of a Latte?

A matcha americano is for people who want the full, clean matcha flavor without the creaminess of milk. It is lower in calories (5 kcal vs ~120 kcal for a latte), has a more intense matcha flavor, and is closer to traditional Japanese matcha preparation.

It is also the best format for people who are lactose intolerant or avoiding dairy and do not want plant milk alternatives.

Using 3g of matcha (vs 2g for a latte) compensates for the dilution with water and produces a balanced, full-flavored drink.

Tips for the Best Result

Use more matcha than for a latte. 3g (1.5 tsp) produces a concentrated shot that holds up to dilution with water. 2g produces a weak, watery result.

Use ceremonial grade. Without milk to add creaminess and sweetness, the matcha quality is front and center.

Do not use boiling water for dilution. Keep the dilution water at 175F (80C) for a hot americano to avoid bitterness.

A pinch of sea salt enhances the matcha flavor and reduces perceived bitterness.