What Does Matcha Pair Well With?

Matcha pairs well with ingredients that enhance its taste and texture . Some of the best matcha pairings include: Fruits: Lemon, orange, yuzu, strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, banana, mango, and coconut. Nuts & Nut Butters: Almonds, hazelnuts, pistachios, macadamia nuts, and peanut butter. Sweeteners: Honey, maple syrup, agave, and condensed milk. Chocolate: White chocolate, dark chocolate, and milk chocolate. Spices & Herbs: Cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cardamom, and mint. Dairy & Non-Dairy Alternatives: Whole milk, oat milk, almond milk, soy milk, coconut milk, and mascarpone cheese. Savory Ingredients: Black sesame, seaweed, miso, soy sauce, and certain cheeses like cream cheese and parmesan. Each of these ingredients adds a unique dimension to matcha , making it more enjoyable and versatile in different recipes.

What Is the Best Thing to Mix Matcha With?

The best thing to mix matcha with depends on whether you're making a drink, dessert, or savory dish . Here are some top mix-ins for matcha: For Matcha Drinks: Milk (Dairy or Non-Dairy) – Creates a smooth and creamy matcha latte. Honey or Maple Syrup – Natural sweeteners that enhance matcha’s earthy flavors. Vanilla Extract – Adds warmth and a touch of sweetness. Coconut Water – A refreshing, hydrating alternative to milk. For Matcha Desserts: White or Dark Chocolate – Balances matcha’s bitterness with creamy sweetness. Banana or Mango – Adds natural sweetness and a velvety texture. Almond or Hazelnut Butter – Gives depth and a nutty contrast. For Savory Matcha Dishes: Black Sesame – Enhances matcha’s earthiness in sauces and desserts. Parmesan Cheese – Works well in matcha-infused pasta or crackers. Miso and Soy Sauce – Adds an umami punch in Japanese-inspired recipes. Experimenting with different matcha combinations allows you to find the best mix-ins for your taste!

What Do the Japanese Eat with Matcha?

In Japan, matcha is traditionally enjoyed with wagashi , which are delicate Japanese sweets made from mochi, red bean paste, or rice flour . The sweetness of wagashi balances matcha’s slight bitterness , making them a classic pairing . Some traditional Japanese treats that go well with matcha include: Mochi – Soft, chewy rice cakes filled with sweet bean paste or other flavors. Dorayaki – Pancake-like pastries filled with sweet red bean paste. Yokan – A dense, jellied sweet made from red bean paste and agar. Dango – Skewered rice dumplings, sometimes coated in a sweet soy glaze. Taiyaki – Fish-shaped pastries filled with custard or red bean paste. In addition to sweets, the Japanese also use matcha in savory dishes like: Matcha Soba Noodles – Green tea-infused noodles served hot or cold. Matcha Salt – Used as a seasoning for tempura or grilled meats. Matcha Rice Dishes – Sprinkled over rice or mixed into ochazuke (a simple dish with rice and tea). Whether paired with traditional Japanese treats or modern desserts , matcha remains a staple in Japanese cuisine and tea culture . Now that you know what pairs nicely with matcha, it’s time to try these pairings yourself!

What Is the Perfect Match with Matcha?

The perfect match with matcha depends on personal preference and the dish you’re making . However, some of the most popular and well-balanced pairings include: Matcha and White Chocolate – The creamy, sweet notes of white chocolate balance matcha’s natural bitterness, making this a top pairing for lattes, truffles, and cookies. Matcha and Almond – The nutty richness of almonds complements matcha’s earthy tones, working well in lattes, baked goods, and smoothies . Matcha and Citrus (Lemon or Yuzu) – The zesty brightness of citrus enhances matcha’s fresh, grassy flavor. A matcha-yuzu tart or a matcha-lemon drink is an excellent way to enjoy this pairing. Matcha and Berries – The natural sweetness and slight tartness of strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries create a refreshing contrast to matcha’s umami richness. If you’re looking for a foolproof matcha pairing , consider a matcha latte with oat milk , as the natural sweetness of oat milk brings out matcha’s best flavors.

What Pairs Nicely with Matcha? 16 Delicious Combinations to Try

Name: What Pairs Nicely with Matcha? 16 Delicious Combinations to Try
Prep time: PT-483767H5M33S
Cook time: PT-483767H5M33S
Total time: 11 min
Cuisine: Japanese-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 teaspoon ceremonial-grade matcha powder; 1/4 cup hot water (not boiling, about 175°F/80°C); 3/4 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any milk alternative); 1 teaspoon honey (or maple syrup for vegan option); 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional); 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for extra warmth)

Description

This Matcha Almond Latte is a creamy and nutty twist on traditional matcha lattes. Made with ceremonial-grade matcha, almond milk, and a touch of honey, this warm, comforting drink balances matcha’s earthy bitterness with the sweetness of almond milk. Perfect for breakfast or a midday energy boost!

Ingredients

Scale

1 teaspoon ceremonial-grade matcha powder
1/4 cup hot water (not boiling, about 175°F/80°C)
3/4 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any milk alternative)
1 teaspoon honey (or maple syrup for vegan option)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for extra warmth)

Instructions

Sift the matcha powder into a bowl to remove clumps.
Add the hot water and whisk vigorously using a bamboo whisk (chasen) or a milk frother until the matcha is smooth and frothy.
In a saucepan, heat the almond milk over medium heat until warm but not boiling.
Stir in the honey, vanilla extract, and cinnamon (if using).
Froth the almond milk using a frother or whisk until slightly foamy.
Pour the warm almond milk over the whisked matcha.
Stir gently, serve immediately, and enjoy!

Notes

For an iced version, let the matcha mixture cool, then pour over ice and cold almond milk.
Adjust the sweetness level by adding more or less honey.
Use oat milk or coconut milk for a creamier texture.

Prep Time: 5M
Cook Time: 3M
Category: Beverage
Method: Whisking and Frothing
Cuisine: Japanese-Inspired

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup (about 250ml)
Calories: 80 kcal
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 90mg
Fat: 3.5g
Saturated Fat: 0.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Matcha almond latte, matcha drink, best matcha latte recipe, matcha tea recipe, dairy-free matcha latte, healthy matcha latte