Yes, technically you can drink cooking matcha, but it is generally not recommended for drinking on its own due to its taste profile.
While drinking culinary matcha on its own is similar to drinking a bottle of cooking wine — it will not taste pleasant, this grade of matcha is specifically designed for culinary applications. Its strength and intensity are meant to stand out when combined with other ingredients.
Culinary vs. Ceremonial Matcha
Matcha comes in different grades, primarily categorized as ceremonial and culinary. The key differences lie in their quality, production, and intended use:
- Ceremonial Grade: Made from younger tea leaves, stone-ground to a very fine powder. It has a vibrant green color, a smooth texture, and a naturally sweet, nuanced flavor. It is intended to be whisked with hot water and consumed on its own, traditionally in tea ceremonies.
- Culinary Grade: Made from slightly older leaves, often ground using different methods. It has a bolder, sometimes slightly bitter, flavor and a less vibrant color. It's designed to be mixed into recipes, where its strong flavor can cut through other ingredients like milk, sugar, and flour.
Why Culinary Matcha Isn't Ideal for Drinking
As highlighted by the reference, consuming culinary matcha mixed only with water is unlikely to be an enjoyable experience.
- Flavor Profile: Culinary matcha typically has a more robust, sometimes bitter, or astringent taste compared to the smooth, umami-rich flavor of ceremonial grade. This intensity is needed to ensure the matcha flavor is present in baked goods, smoothies, or lattes.
- Texture: While still a fine powder, culinary grade might not dissolve as smoothly as ceremonial grade when whisked with water alone, potentially leaving a grittier texture.
Best Uses for Culinary Matcha
Instead of drinking it straight, culinary matcha excels when used as an ingredient in:
- Lattes and Smoothies: The strong flavor pairs well with milk (dairy or non-dairy) and sweeteners.
- Baking: Provides color and flavor to cakes, cookies, muffins, and bread.
- Desserts: Used in ice cream, puddings, cheesecakes, and chocolates.
- Savory Dishes: Can be incorporated into sauces, dressings, or spice rubs for a unique earthy note.
In summary: While edible and technically drinkable, culinary matcha is formulated for cooking and baking. Its taste on its own is often described as unpleasant, making ceremonial grade the preferred choice for a traditional matcha drink.
