What Does Blue Matcha Taste Like: Exploring the Flavor Profile
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In the world of teas, blue matcha stands out with its vibrant hue and flavor profile.
Unlike traditional matcha, blue matcha is a relatively new entrant that’s been capturing the curiosity of tea enthusiasts. But what exactly does blue matcha taste like?
Blue matcha is crafted from the dried flowers of the Clitoria ternatea plant, commonly known as the butterfly pea flower. The flavor of blue matcha is often described as subtly earthy and sweet, with a gentle floral note that sets it apart from the more robust, grassy intensity of green matcha.
If you’re curious to learn what blue matcha tastes like then keep on reading.
We’ll cover the full flavor profile, how it’s different than traditional matcha, and how to make your blue matcha latte.
What Does Blue Matcha Taste Like?
Blue matcha is made from the dried flowers of the Clitoria ternatea plant, also known as butterfly pea flower, and not from green tea leaves. Contrary to its name, blue matcha is not a variant of traditional matcha and they taste distinctively different.
Blue matcha has a subtle flavor that’s often described as mildly earthy, and sweet with a slight floral note. It’s smooth and lacks the bitterness that’s often characterized by traditional matcha.
Most people enjoy blue matcha for its visual appeal. Its flavor is mild and not that intense which makes it a great vessel to add to desserts, smoothies, and lattes.
The Unique Flavor Notes of Blue Matcha
Blue matcha offers a unique sensory experience quite distinct from traditional matcha. It has earthy and grassy notes that many tea drinkers find refreshing. You may also notice a vegetal flavor with a hint of umami.
Here’s a breakdown of the different flavor notes you’ll taste in blue matcha.
Mild and Delicate
Blue matcha has a much milder flavor compared to the robust, grassy intensity of green matcha. It’s gentle on the palate, making it suitable for those who prefer subtler tea flavors.
Earthy and Woody
The primary notes are earthy, with a hint of woody undertones. This earthiness is not as pronounced as in some teas but provides a grounding, subtle base to its flavor.
Slightly Floral
A faint floral hint of blue matcha reflects its origin from a flower. This floral note is delicate and can sometimes be more noticeable in the aroma than the taste.
Hint of Sweetness
Some people detect a slight natural sweetness in blue matcha, though it’s not as sweet as some herbal teas. This sweetness is more in the background and does not dominate the flavor profile.
Blue Matcha Aroma and Texture
When it comes to aroma, blue matcha has a pleasant vegetal smell with a hint of floral fragrance.
The aroma is gentle and soothing, perfect for creating a calm and comforting atmosphere. As for texture, you can expect a smooth consistency, which is typical of matcha.
Mixing blue matcha thoroughly with your choice of liquid (such as hot water or milk) ensures a lump-free and enjoyable drinking experience.
Does Blue Matcha Taste Good?
Some may appreciate blur matcha’s earthy and vegetal taste, while others prefer something sweeter. If you find the taste too strong, there are ways to modify the flavor.
Adding a sweetener such as honey or agave can help balance the earthy taste. Additionally, you can blend blue matcha with fruits or spices for a flavor twist. Sampling different recipes will help you find the perfect blue matcha taste for your palate.
Factors That Affect How Blue Matcha Tastes
Quality
When choosing blue matcha powder, the quality significantly affects its taste. Opt for a high-quality, organic powder to ensure a natural, pleasant flavor, and avoid any unpleasant surprises.
Type of Water
The kind of water you use to make your blue matcha beverage also plays a crucial role in determining its taste. Always use filtered water to ensure a clean and pure flavor. You can even experiment with different types of water, such as spring or mineral water, to see how it alters the taste.
Brewing Temperature
Brewing temperature is a crucial aspect that influences the taste of blue matcha. Steeping your powder in hot water will enhance its natural flavors while using cold water or milk might result in a milder taste. Experiment with different temperatures to find your desired taste.
| Temperature | Result |
|---|---|
| Hot water | Enhanced flavors |
| Cold water/milk | Milder taste |
Powder Grind Size
Lastly, the powder grind size affects the taste of your blue matcha. Finer grinds typically yield a smoother and stronger taste, while coarser grinds might give you a lighter flavor profile.
Blue Matcha vs Green Matcha: Taste Differences
Blue matcha and traditional green matcha both offer unique taste experiences. However, there are some distinct differences in their flavor profiles. Let’s compare the two side-by-side:
Blue Matcha: Earthiness movie ticket by a subtle sweetness, blue matcha carries a mild, grassy taste. It is often described as having a more floral, herb-like flavor that can be refreshing and calming.
Green Matcha: Known for its strong, bitter taste, traditional green matcha offers a more robust flavor. The taste can be described as vegetal and slightly sweet.
Here’s a quick overview of the differences in taste between blue and green matcha:
| Aspect | Green Matcha | Blue Matcha |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Ground leaves of Camellia sinensis | Ground butterfly pea flowers (Clitoria ternatea) |
| Color | Vibrant green | Naturally blue |
| Flavor | Grassy, earthy, umami, can be slightly bitter | Mild, subtle earthy, slight floral hint, no bitterness |
| Aroma | Fresh, vegetal, sometimes with sweet undertones | Mild, slightly floral, with an earthy notes |
| Texture | Fine powder, creates a smooth, frothy texture when whisked | Fine powder, smoother but does not froth like green matcha |
| Culinary Uses | Teas, lattes, desserts, cooking | Beverages, desserts, colorant in various dishes |
| Preparation | Whisked with hot water, frothy | Mixed with hot or cold water, does not froth |
Don’t forget that the quality of your matcha powder can also impact its flavor. It is always best to choose high-quality, organic powders to ensure a delicious taste. While trying out both blue and green matcha, you can decide which one suits your taste preferences the best.
Where To Buy Blue Matcha
Blue matcha is a trendy tea, and you may be wondering where to get your hands on some. Fear not! You can find this unique tea at various online and physical stores.
Ancient Roots Blue Butterfly Pea Powder
All-Natural Food Coloring, Filled with Antioxidant
Many Amazon reviews point out how people are enjoying its taste. They mention the quality and how it’s just the right amount of sweetness. What’s catching everyone’s attention is its deliciously crisp taste. It’s not just about color; it’s a fantastic, natural way to sweeten up your teas.
Blue Tea Butterfly Pea Powder Matcha
Savor the freshness
Many customer reviews comment about the taste, smell and color of the tea. Customers enjoy the unique taste and smell great. They also appreciate the beautiful vibrant color.
Ancient Choice Butterfly Pea Flower Powder
Amazon’s choice
Many customer reviews mention how they enjoy the high quality, color, and taste. It’s perfect for a variety of uses such as tea, desserts and backing. Additionally, it’s 100% and non-GMO and sourced from Thailand.
Though the sources may differ, look for premium quality blue matcha, ensuring your tea experience is top-notch.
How to Prepare Blue Matcha Latte
Creating a blue matcha latte is a visually stunning and delightful experience. Blue matcha, or butterfly pea tea, is a caffeine-free drink that is perfect for those who want to enjoy a latte without the buzz. Here’s a simple recipe to make one serving:
Ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon blue matcha powder (butterfly pea flower powder)
- 1 cup (about 240 ml) of milk (dairy or plant-based like almond, soy, or coconut milk)
- 1-2 teaspoons of honey or sweetener of choice (adjust to taste)
- A small amount of hot water (just enough to dissolve the blue matcha)
- Ice cubes (for an iced version)
- Optional: Vanilla extract or cinnamon for additional flavor
Instructions:
- Dissolve the Blue Matcha:
- In a small bowl, add the blue matcha powder.
- Pour in a small amount of hot (not boiling) water, about 2 tablespoons.
- Whisk it briskly with a bamboo whisk or a small regular whisk until it’s completely dissolved and a bit frothy. Ensure there are no lumps.
- Heat the Milk:
- If you’re making a hot latte, gently heat the milk in a saucepan until it’s warm but not boiling. For an iced latte, skip this step.
- Froth the Milk:
- Use a milk frother to froth the warm milk until it’s creamy and has a good amount of foam. If you don’t have a frother, you can shake the milk vigorously in a tightly sealed jar or whisk it by hand.
- Combine:
- Pour the dissolved blue matcha into a mug (for a hot latte) or a tall glass (for an iced latte).
- If you’re making an iced latte, add ice cubes to the glass now.
- Gently pour in the frothed milk.
- Sweeten:
- Stir in honey or your preferred sweetener. Adjust the amount based on your taste preference.
- Optional Flavorings:
- If desired, add a few drops of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor.
- Serve:
- Give it a gentle stir to create a beautiful swirl effect with the blue and white colors.
- Enjoy your homemade Blue Matcha Latte!
This latte is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a visual delight, making it perfect for a relaxing moment or to impress guests.
Final Thoughts
Blue matcha has a mild, earthy flavor with subtle floral notes which is very different than traditional matcha. Ideal for those seeking a visually stunning ingredient, blue matcha is versatile in culinary applications, from vibrant lattes to creative desserts.
It’s not meant to replace traditional green matcha. Instead, blue matcha should be enjoyed for its distinctive charm. Whether you’re a tea aficionado or a curious newcomer, exploring the delicate nuances of blue matcha will surely add a colorful twist to your tea adventures.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is blue matcha used for?
Blue matcha is popularly used for its vibrant color. It’s mainly used in beverages, smoothies, and desserts. Its mildly sweet and earthy flavor adds a unique twist to your recipes. You can also use it for food presentations to impress your guests or add some excitement to your daily tea routine.
Does blue matcha taste different than regular matcha?
Yes, blue matcha has a distinct taste compared to regular green matcha. While green matcha has a slightly bitter, grassy flavor, blue matcha is known for its mild, sweet, and earthy taste. It’s perfect for those who want to enjoy the visual appeal and unique flavor while avoiding the bitterness of green matcha.
Is blue matcha considered matcha?
Blue matcha is not derived from the same plant as traditional green matcha, which comes from the Camellia sinensis plant. Blue matcha is made from the butterfly pea flower (Clitoria ternatea), a plant native to Southeast Asia.
Does blue matcha have caffeine?
No, blue matcha doesn’t contain caffeine. This makes it an excellent alternative for those who want to enjoy a vibrant and calming beverage without the stimulating effects of caffeine. It’s perfect for a late afternoon or evening treat when you don’t want to risk interrupting your sleep.
