Blue matcha: a flower infusion from Thailand
There are no powdered tea leaves in blue matcha, but rather ground petals of Butterfly Pea flowers, an Ayurvedic plant also known as "Blue Pea", "Butterfly Pea Flower", or "Clitoria ternatea" (in Latin). That is why it is more accurately described as an herbal infusion rather than tea. This perennial climbing plant from the Fabaceae family (like beans or wisteria), found in Southeast Asia, is renowned for its blue petals. Highly popular as a natural food colouring in recipes, it is used in lattes, smoothies, ice creams, and cakes.
Is blue matcha actually matcha tea?
Absolutely not. Blue matcha is not a powdered green tea, and even less so a matcha tea. They are products derived from completely different plants: one from the tea plant, the other from a flower. Nonetheless, they share common traits that may explain why the term matcha was (improperly) adopted: both are colourful powders—one green, the other blue—consumed in the same way, diluted in water, incorporated into culinary recipes, or used in cosmetics (face masks, soaps...). In Malaysia, blue matcha is mixed into a rice dish that turns sky-blue, known as Nasi Kerabu. Whatever the use, we recommend choosing organic blue matcha, which is kinder to the planet and much better for your health.
What does blue matcha taste like?
Blue matcha has a very mild floral and herbaceous taste. If you add a few drops of lemon juice, its colour will magically change from azure blue to deep purple (definitely worth trying!). Note that there is also "pink matcha" on the market, made from dragon fruit powder, often originating from Indonesia. Its flavour, much fruitier, is said to be reminiscent of a blend of kiwi, strawberry, and watermelon.
What are the purported benefits of blue matcha?
Thanks to its high zinc content, blue matcha is said to have a relaxing effect as well as antioxidant properties (by protecting cells from oxidative stress), all while giving skin and hair a radiant glow. These benefits may seem quite similar to those attributed to matcha tea, which also explains why the two names are often conflated. Japanese matcha tea is likewise renowned for its antioxidants (which are not quite the same as those found in blue matcha), helping to fight ageing while exerting a soothing and anti-redness effect on the skin. However, genuine Japanese matcha tea primarily contains compounds unique to the tea plant (which blue matcha lacks): caffeine, which boosts energy and cognitive function, and L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes stress reduction and relaxation.
Our Reviews on Blue Matcha
Fake matcha teas abound on the market: blue matcha, pink matcha... there is no shortage of names. How can you tell them apart? By their colour, their taste, their origin (Japanese for genuine matcha), and... their price! Beware of prices that are too low, as matcha, by virtue of its quality, is a tea known to command a higher price than others. To choose your green tea powder wisely, we recommend opting for organic matcha. Indeed, organic certification guarantees a premium-quality tea, free of pesticides and grown with respect for the environment thanks to numerous quality controls during production. To enjoy it at its best, you will need a bowl and a whisk. Heat some water to 75°C; it should not be too hot. Place the matcha in the bottom of the bowl, then gently pour in the water. Next, mix using the whisk so that the powder dissolves throughout the bowl. To whisk properly, the whisk should barely touch the bottom of the bowl. You can then add milk if you wish.
Blue matcha therefore belongs to the family of faux matchas and has nothing in common with its cousins, green teas or black teas. This blue powder is actually made from flowers. Originating in Thailand, it is not a Japanese tea either. By drinking blue matcha, you will not enjoy the same benefits as traditional matcha tea. So grab your whisk and bowl, and enjoy!