Korean Matcha

Korean unshaded matcha, often more robust in flavour than its shaded Japanese counterpart, is versatile and can be applied in various culinary and non-culinary contexts. Here’s a list of applications where the bolder flavour of Korean unshaded matcha might be preferable or work just as well as shaded Japanese matcha:

Culinary Applications:

1. Baked Goods: Incorporate into batters for cookies, cakes, muffins, or brownies where a stronger matcha flavour is desired.
2. Matcha Lattes: While ceremonial grade matcha is usually preferred for lattes, Korean matcha can be used for a bolder flavour profile.
3. Smoothies and Shakes: Blend with fruits, vegetables, and milk (or milk alternatives) for a green boost.
4. Ice Creams and Gelatos: Create matcha-flavored frozen treats.
5. Pancakes and Waffles: Add to the batter for a unique breakfast offering.
6. Sauces and Dressings: Experiment with matcha-infused mayo, aioli, or salad dressings.
7. Pasta: Incorporate into pasta dough for matcha-infused noodles.
8. Energy Balls and Bars: Mix with nuts, dried fruits, and sweeteners.
9. Chocolate: For homemade matcha-infused chocolates or truffles.
10. Cereals and Granolas: For a matcha twist on morning favourites.

Beverages:

1. Cold Brew Matcha: Cold steeping can bring out different flavour profiles.
2. Matcha Cocktails: Blend with spirits for a unique cocktail offering.
3. Matcha Ale or Beer: Some breweries experiment with matcha for a unique beer flavour.

Non-culinary Applications:

1. Dyeing: Use as a natural colourant for textiles or crafts.
2. Art: Apply in certain art projects or crafts for their rich colour.

Beauty:

1. Face Masks: For a detoxifying and rejuvenating effect.
2. Hair Treatments: To strengthen and nourish hair.
3. Bath Bombs: For a matcha-infused relaxing bath experience.
4. Body Scrubs: Mixed with other ingredients for exfoliation.

While shaded Japanese matcha, especially of ceremonial grade, is revered for its refined flavour profile and plays a central role in the traditional Japanese tea ceremony, the stronger flavour of Korean unshaded matcha can be a versatile ingredient in various applications. Its robust taste ensures that the matcha flavour stands out, even when combined with other potent ingredients.