25 Unexpected Ways To Use Matcha In Your Daily Cooking

Matcha is so ubiquitous that almost everyone has probably heard of it. From traditional Japanese tea to matcha latte, the brightly colored green powder is present everywhere. And there are a few matcha varieties out there, so not everything you buy will taste the same. Matcha and green tea come from the same plant, but matcha uses only some leaves. Furthermore, you can find culinary-grade matcha and ceremonial-grade matcha, and the two varieties have significant flavor differences. So, you should follow specific criteria when buying matcha tea.

But did you know that you can use matcha in cooking? While Eastern cuisines have been incorporating powdered green tea in different recipes, the ingredient is relatively new to Western cooking. Matcha has a strong, herbal flavor, similar to green tea, a tinge of bitterness, and a hint of sweetness, and it can lend all these aromas to almost any food you choose to incorporate. But, of course, certain flavors go best with matcha, so many foods will tend to pair them. Here are a few ideas to help you start cooking with matcha.

Who can resist a couple of moist and fragrant muffins? They're essentially the perfect breakfast, snack, or dinner. To make things even better, you can make matcha muffins, a muffin type with a vibrant green color and a delicious matcha taste. Matcha muffins come with a light and fluffy texture, while taste-wise, the salt balances out the sweetness of the granulated sugar. The ceremonial-grade matcha powder provides a distinct and delightful flavor, complemented by the subtle taste of the vanilla extract.

You can add lemon zest to the muffins for some extra flavor. It will give them a refreshing and tangy taste, which pairs perfectly with the earthy flavor of the matcha powder. Regarding texture, coconut oil adds a delicious richness to the muffins and makes them incredibly moist.

Matcha cookies are another delightful treat that combines the green tea's earthy, slightly bitter flavor with the sugar's sweetness and the spices' warmth. In this matcha cookies recipe, the cookies are made with a mix of rice flour, almond flour, and chestnut flour, giving them a unique texture that is crispy and chewy.

Matcha cookies can include baking soda, cinnamon, allspice, and black pepper, which all add to the complexity of the aroma. In addition, these spices bring depth to the flavor profile, making the cookies taste rich and full-bodied. Other matcha cookie recipes will also call for avocado or ginger, adding a creamy texture or a bit of zing.

Matcha pancakes are the ultimate breakfast indulgence for those who want to start their day with a jolt of energy and a punch of flavor. These emerald green delights are aesthetically pleasing and a treat for your taste buds. The subtle earthy flavor of matcha powder gives these pancakes a unique taste, making them stand out from their plain counterparts. And let's not forget about their texture. Matcha pancakes are fluffy, light, and slightly chewy, making them the perfect canvas for all sorts of toppings.

Try topping matcha pancakes with butter and syrup, or get creative with toppings like whipped cream, fresh berries, or even a dollop of Nutella. Finally, for the ultimate matcha pancake experience, use a generous drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds. You're in for a real burst of flavor.

Matcha truffles are a delicious mix of cocoa, matcha powder, and other ingredients that make the perfect sweet treat. These truffles combine melted chocolate with matcha powder to create a creamy ganache filling. You can refrigerate the ganache, cut it into chunks, and roll them in matcha powder. The result is an irresistible truffle with a rich flavor profile from the cocoa, sweetness from the sugar, and freshness from the matcha powder.

On the other hand, you can make chocolate-covered matcha truffles filled with matcha cream. These gourmet treats feature creamy white chocolate infused with green tea for an exquisite taste sensation. White chocolate coats each truffle before it's filled with a smooth matcha-infused cream center that's sure to please any palate.

Matcha granola is a delicious and nutritious breakfast option that combines matcha's rich and earthy flavor with the crunchy texture of granola. Matcha taste is often described as slightly bitter, grassy, and nutty, and it pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the granola. Matcha granola is made with matcha powder, coconut flakes, pumpkin seeds, and almonds, which give it a unique flavor.

The green tea powder used in matcha granola is rich in antioxidants and other beneficial compounds, making it a healthy addition to your diet. Additionally, the combination of oats, nuts, seeds, and other ingredients in granola provides a satisfying and filling breakfast that can energize you throughout the morning.

Matcha energy balls are a delicious and healthy snack that simultaneously provides energy and satisfies your sweet cravings. The texture of matcha energy balls can vary depending on the recipe, but they are typically dense and chewy with a slightly gritty texture from the matcha powder. The flavor combines sweet and nutty with a subtle bitterness from the matcha.

Various ingredients can be added to matcha energy balls to enhance the flavor and texture. Common ingredients include nuts, such as almonds, cashews, and coconut; dried fruit, such as dates or raisins; and seeds, such as chia or hemp seeds. Other ingredients, such as vanilla extract or coconut flakes, can also be added.

Matcha-coated churros are a unique twist on the classic Spanish pastry. The rich, buttery flavor of churros and the earthy, slightly bitter taste of matcha creates a delightful balance of flavors. Churros have a crispy outside texture and an inside soft and fluffy consistency, providing a satisfying crunch with each bite.

The matcha coating on the churros gives them a vibrant green color and a delicate, slightly powdery texture that adds to the overall experience. You can also try additional toppings, such as a drizzle of dark chocolate or caramel sauce, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, a dusting of cinnamon, or various fruit jams and jellies.

Matcha waffles are a delightful twist on the classic breakfast dish, combining matcha's characteristic flavor with the waffles' crispiness. Matcha waffles are made with matcha powder, flour, sugar, eggs, milk, and butter and have a delicate and slightly bitter taste that perfectly balances the sweetness.

The texture of matcha waffles is light and fluffy, with a crisp exterior that adds a satisfying crunch to each bite. The matcha powder also adds a subtle graininess that complements the texture of the waffle. Matcha waffles can be enjoyed on their own or topped with various ingredients, such as fresh fruit, whipped cream, or maple syrup. They also pair well with savory toppings, such as bacon and eggs.

Matcha brownies are a delicious twist on the classic chocolate treat. They have a nutty and slightly bitter aroma which balances well with the sweetness of the chocolate. The texture is dense and fudgy, with a slight crumbly crust.

Other ingredients, such as flour, sugar, eggs, butter, cocoa, and chocolate chips, go into making matcha brownies. Finally, the matcha powder is usually added to the dry ingredients and mixed into the batter. Matcha powder pairs well with ingredients like chocolate, almonds, coconut, and vanilla, and the specific taste of almonds and coconut brings another layer of complexity to the flavor profile.

Matcha cheesecake is a delightful fusion of Japanese and Western tastes. This delicious dessert combines the cheesecake's rich creaminess with matcha green tea's delicate bitterness. The texture of matcha cheesecake is smooth and velvety, with a subtle crunch from the graham cracker crust made from a mixture of graham cracker crumbs, butter, cinnamon, and sugar.

The cheesecake filling is made with a blend of cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and sour cream, and it is infused with the flavor and health benefits of matcha green tea. The avocado adds a subtle creaminess and richness, while the lemon zest adds a refreshing citrus twist to the aroma.

Matcha chocolate mousse is a decadent and delightful dessert that combines matcha green tea and chocolate flavors. This dessert is typically made by combining high-quality matcha powder with white or dark chocolate to create a smooth and creamy mousse texture.

The white chocolate adds a touch of sweetness and creaminess to the dessert, while the dark chocolate adds a rich and complex flavor. The matcha powder brings a unique earthy flavor and vibrant green color to the mousse. Matcha chocolate mousse can be served on its own or used as a filling for chocolate mousse cake. The texture of the mousse is light and airy, which makes it a perfect pairing for the rich and dense chocolate cake.

Matcha buttercream is a unique and delicious frosting made with butter, heavy cream, white chocolate, and matcha powder. The addition of matcha powder adds a distinct, earthy flavor to the buttercream that is complemented by the sweet creaminess of white chocolate.

An excellent pairing for matcha buttercream is with squash cupcakes. The subtle sweetness of the squash cupcakes balances the earthiness of the matcha powder, while the cupcakes' light and fluffy texture contrasts with the buttercream's soft texture. The combination of aromas and textures creates a genuinely delightful dessert with the delicious combination of earthy matcha, sweet white chocolate, and milky butter.

Mochi is a traditional Japanese dessert made of glutinous rice flour, sugar, and water. It is known for its soft and chewy texture and is often filled with sweet or savory fillings. Matcha mochi is a variation of mochi that incorporates matcha, with its slightly bitter taste and emerald green color.

Matcha is an excellent mochi flavor because it adds a vibrant green color, making it visually appealing. Additionally, matcha brings a solid flavor to mochi, contrasting the simple rice flour dough, which has a mild taste and a soft texture. Matcha mochi can be enjoyed on its own or with a cup of hot tea, making it the perfect treat for any time of the day.

Matcha-dusted nuts or almonds are a delicious and healthy snack that we love. Matcha creates a unique and tasty combination when dusted onto nuts or almonds. The nuts and almonds provide a hint of sweetness that pairs perfectly with their crunchy texture and matcha's bitterness. Chocolate-coated almonds are also available for those who prefer something sweeter. The combination makes for a snack that is both satisfying and energizing.

In addition to their health benefits, matcha-dusted nuts or almonds are also an excellent option for those looking for a tasty snack that is easy to prepare and transport. They can be made at home with just a few ingredients and stored in an airtight container for an on-the-go snack.

Matcha chia seed pudding is a healthy dessert or breakfast option combining chia seeds' creamy texture and matcha powder's characteristic aroma. The chia seed pudding recipe usually includes other ingredients such as almond milk, honey, vanilla extract, and sliced almonds.

The flavor of matcha chia seed pudding is unique and complex, with a subtle sweetness from the honey and vanilla extract, a creamy texture from the chia seeds, and a hint of bitterness from the matcha powder. The pudding is not too sweet but has a rich taste and a unique aroma. The addition of sliced almonds provides a nice crunch and nutty flavor that complements the other ingredients.

Matcha fudge is a delicious and unique treat that combines the delicate flavor of matcha green tea with the rich and creamy texture of fudge. The main ingredients in matcha fudge typically include condensed milk, sugar, white chocolate, and matcha powder. The condensed milk helps to give the fudge a smooth and creamy texture, while the sugar and chocolate add sweetness to balance the slightly bitter taste of matcha.

In the vegan matcha fudge version, coconut butter and cacao butter can be used instead of condensed milk. In addition, some recipes may include nuts, such as pistachios or almonds, for added texture and aroma. The taste of matcha fudge is unique and distinctive, with a slightly bitter yet sweet flavor profile.

The tightly packed, indulgent, and soft delicious snack that is a buttercup can only get better with matcha. Matcha butter cups combine the rich flavor of matcha with the creamy texture and soft taste of butter. They are made with just a few ingredients and are a guilt-free indulgence that will satisfy your sweet tooth.

To make the vegan version of matcha butter cups, use coconut oil and maple syrup to replace dairy products. These ingredients add a subtle sweetness and a creamy texture to the butter cups, making them even more delicious. Overall, matcha butter cups have a rich, creamy taste that is hard to resist.

Matcha oatmeal is like the love child of a Japanese tea ceremony and a cozy breakfast. It has warm, creamy oats infused with vibrant green matcha powder, creating a subtle earthy taste that'll make your taste buds dance.

As far as toppings go, try a sprinkle of coconut flakes, a drizzle of honey, and some sliced almonds for crunch. Or, add some fresh berries and a dollop of Greek yogurt for a tangy twist. Matcha also pairs well with other ingredients like ginger, lemon, and avocado. So, if you're feeling adventurous, go ahead and experiment. Who knows, you might discover your new favorite matcha-oatmeal combo.

Matcha popcorn is an unlikely combination that tastes great, especially if you like both flavors. It quietly sneaks up on your taste buds and then brings a flavor explosion. With its distinctive taste, matcha is the ultimate power-up for your popcorn game.

Of course, you could go for the classic popcorn toppings like butter, salt, and caramel, but where's the fun? With matcha popcorn, you get all the deliciousness of popcorn with the added health benefits of green tea. It's like eating your vegetables but in snack form. And let's not forget about the aesthetic appeal of matcha popcorn — that vibrant green color adds an eye-catching element to the otherwise plain-looking snack.

Matcha popsicles are the ultimate treat for any matcha lover looking to cool off in style. They are not only refreshing (as are all popsicles) but also loaded with antioxidants. However, pairing matcha with other ingredients is where the real magic happens. For example, adding creamy coconut milk to the mix creates a tropical flavor explosion that'll transport you straight to a beach in Hawaii.

Alternatively, incorporating sweet honey into the recipe balances out the slight bitterness of the matcha and creates a delightful, harmonious taste. Add a tangy touch with fresh lime juice, or throw in chopped pistachios for an added crunch. The possibilities are endless, and you're in for a treat with matcha as the show's star.

Matcha rice is an unexpected culinary delight that blends the earthy and grassy taste of matcha with the fluffy texture of rice. This fusion of Japanese flavors results in a visually stunning dish that tastes great.

When it comes to serving matcha rice, the possibilities are endless. It can be enjoyed on its own as a snack or side dish. Matcha rice also pairs well with grilled fish, roasted vegetables, and stir-fried meats. For instance, matcha rice with spicy tuna is a match made in heaven. The crispy tuna contrasts beautifully with the spicy sriracha and the subtle sweetness of the matcha.

Matcha hummus is the perfect blend of earthy chickpeas and fragrant matcha tea, resulting in a creamy and flavorful dip that will elevate your snack game. This unlikely combination may seem unconventional, but it works wonders. The nutty and slightly bitter flavor of the matcha powder complements the creamy and savory hummus base, creating a unique taste experience that's hard to forget.

Not only is matcha hummus delicious, but it's also versatile in terms of pairing. Spread it on toast or pita chips for a quick and easy breakfast or snack, or serve it alongside fresh veggies for a satisfying appetizer.

Matcha salad dressing is the perfect way to add a punch of flavor to your leafy greens. This vibrant and verdant dressing features matcha powder's earthy, grassy taste, blended with a bright and tangy combination which can include rice vinegar, lemon juice, soy sauce, and honey. The result is a delightfully unique dressing that is both refreshing and satisfying.

The flavors in matcha salad dressing pair well with a variety of dishes. It's great on a classic green salad but complements other vegetables such as roasted sweet potato, steamed broccoli, or grilled asparagus. Try tossing it with some cooked soba noodles and stir-fried veggies for a heartier meal.

Move over dull butter; there's a new spread in town — matcha butter. This vibrant green butter perfectly blends creamy butter and earthy matcha tea powder. The nutty, slightly bitter taste of matcha is balanced perfectly with the richness of the butter, creating a harmonious combination of flavors.

Spread matcha butter on your toast in the morning for a deliciously different breakfast, or use it to top your pancakes for a fancy brunch option. It also pairs perfectly with baked goods like scones, muffins, and croissants. Finally, try incorporating matcha butter into your savory dishes, such as stir fries or grilled meats.

Matcha guacamole is the fusion of two beloved foods: creamy, delicious avocados and the earthy notes of matcha green tea. It's an unexpected and surprising pairing that is delightful.

The subtle bitterness of matcha adds a refreshing dimension to the creamy richness of the avocado, creating a truly unique flavor profile. And if you're feeling particularly adventurous, try topping it off with some sesame seeds or chopped cilantro for an extra kick. Serve it with various chips and veggies, or even use it as a spread on toast. This dip is perfect for any occasion, from a casual game night to a fancy dinner party.

Static Media owns and operates Tasting Table and Mashed.