How to Make Basic Matcha (Usucha)

How to Make Basic Matcha (Usucha)

Basic Matcha (Usucha)

Usucha is the lighter, everyday style of matcha enjoyed throughout Japan. It highlights the tea’s freshness, gentle sweetness, and delicate umami while remaining easy to drink. Usucha pairs especially well with something sweet, like a piece of dark chocolate.

Tools You’ll Need

  • Matcha bowl (chawan) — a wide bowl that gives you room to whisk
  • Bamboo whisk (chasen) — used to create smooth, frothy matcha
  • Teaspoon or bamboo matcha scoop (chashaku)
  • Fine mesh sifter — helps prevent clumps
  • Kettle or hot water source
  • Small measuring cup — optional, for measuring water

Ingredients

  • 2 grams of matcha, roughly 1 teaspoon or two full bamboo matcha scoops
  • 2.5 oz / 70 ml hot water at about 175°F / 80°C
    • No thermometer? Let freshly boiled water sit for about 5 minutes before using.
Matcha bowl before preparation

Step 1: Warm the Bowl

Pour hot water into your bowl and let it sit for 30 seconds.

At the same time, place your bamboo whisk in the warm water to soften the tines.

Discard the water and dry the bowl.


Matcha powder being added to a bowl

Step 2: Add Matcha Powder

Place the tea sifter on top of the bowl.

Add 2 grams of matcha, about 1 teaspoon, to the sifter. Use your teaspoon or scoop to gently press the matcha through the sifter and into the bowl.


Hot water being added to matcha powder

Step 3: Add Hot Water

Pour in 2.5 oz / 70 ml of hot water at approximately 175°F / 80°C.

The main point is to avoid boiling water, which can make the matcha taste bitter.


Whisking matcha in a bowl

Step 4: Whisk

Start by stirring gently in a circle to dissolve the matcha.

Then whisk quickly in a zigzag “W” motion until a fine layer of foam forms on top, roughly 15–30 seconds, depending on your whisking style. 


Prepared bowl of matcha

Step 5: Enjoy

When the surface is smooth and lightly frothy, your matcha is ready.

Drink immediately and enjoy the fresh aroma and flavor. 

Pair your matcha with a piece of chocolate or your favorite sweets to enhance your matcha moment. 


A Note from After Tea

In tea ceremony, usucha is often translated as “thin tea,” but that does not mean “weak” tea. Usucha is simply a lighter preparation that allows the tea’s character to shine through. It is the style many people enjoy every day, whether at home, in a tea room, or with friends.

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