Coffee is a beloved, energy enhancing beverage that is consumed by many people around the world, but these days, people are looking for other options and luckily, there is a new kid on the block stepping into the limelight. We’ve been seeing matcha lattes, matcha cookies, and matcha smoothies all over social media, and for good reason. For those that don’t love or do well on coffee, matcha offers a creamy alternative that is lower in caffeine and higher in antioxidants.

How is matcha different from regular green tea, you ask? Good question!

While matcha and green tea are derived from the same plant, matcha is made from de-stemmed and de-veined green tea leaves and then ground into a smooth powder. Unlike it’s counterpart that can be harvested with a machine, matcha must be harvested by hand requiring more time and care. Unlike green tea leaves left in the sun to dry, matcha leaves are placed in the shade which contributes to the rich green color and more nutrient dense nutritional profile.

So, when you slowly sip on your matcha latte savoring the subtle sweetness and rich, velvety, creaminess, you are also receiving:

• 10x’s the amount of antioxidants than green tea
• steady, grounded energy
• metabolic boost
• a dose of chlorophyll, a natural detoxifier for the body
• feel good, relaxed mood

But you don’t just have to sip on this tasty treat. You can also use it to make a delicious smoothie bowl! give this recipe from Naomi Seifter and our friends at Picnik Austin a try.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup frozen spinach
• 1 frozen banana
• 1 cup Picnik Golden Milk Matcha Latte
• 1/2 avocado
• Topped with fresh berries, grain-free granola, banana, and coconut flakes

Directions:

Combine the first four ingredients in your blender and give it a whirl. Then pour it out into a bowl and top it off with all of the superfoods of your heart’s choosing!

 

Recipe from Naomi Seifter & Picnik Austin

 

Find More Vegan Recipes on OMstars