Plant-Based Iced Matcha Chai Latte

Plant-Based Iced Matcha Chai Latte.

This plant-based iced matcha chai latte is refreshing, flavorful, and a perfect transition away from coffee. Whether you’re a coffee or matcha fan, you will love this sweet latte. Read on to learn about matcha vs coffee, and why matcha may be superior.

Coffee vs Matcha

Coffee gives us a burst of energy and focus, but comes with side effects such as anxiety, an upset stomach, headaches, and an eventual midday crash. Not everyone feels these effects, but coffee tends to be addicting and teaches your body to rely on caffeine to wake up. Withdrawing from coffee is also difficult and has physical effects such as headaches, insomnia, and jitters.

Matcha has caffeine too, but unlike coffee it gives you a clean high. Matcha contains amino acid L-Theanine which gives you the same energy and focus coffee does, but hits you slowly. Coffee hits us instantly which is why we experience some of the negative reactions I noted. Matcha takes a bit longer but keeps us energized longer and relaxed and symptom-free throughout.

Ceremonial Grade Matcha

If you’re thinking about making the switch to matcha, you may be wondering where you can buy matcha, or which brand is best. I recommend ceremonial grade matcha because it is the highest quality matcha and has a subtler taste than culinary grade matcha.

Matcha Chai Latte Accessories

To make the perfect matcha, you need the right accessories. Here’s exactly how I made this matcha:

• Heat water stovetop or in a kettle.
• Add matcha to a small dish through a mesh strainer. Use a hooked matcha scooper to measure it out – I usually end up using about 2 tsp.
• Pour hot water to your matcha – the more water you add, the more subtle the taste of the matcha. I usually add at least 1/2 cup.
• Use a matcha whisk to get out any clumps. Whisk vigorously for about 30 seconds.
• Pour milk into your frother. I find an oat or macadamia barista blend milk work best.
• In a tall glass add ice, a splash of chai concentrate, and a tbsp of maple syrup. Top with your matcha and frothed milk.

{Related Posts: If you like this matcha chai latte you’ll love my MANGO GINGER BOWL and my CHINESE CHICK’N SALAD.}