At Hala Tree Cafe, we believe that every drink we serve should be as high quality, as authentically prepared, and as transparently sourced as our coffee. That’s why we’re excited to announce our new partnership with ARTEAO to bring you organic ceremonial grade matcha—a beverage that stands as a testament to our commitment to quality, authenticity, and a direct connection to its origins.
What Is Matcha?
Matcha is a finely ground green tea powder that has been a part of Japanese culture for centuries. Unlike traditional green tea, where you steep whole leaves and then discard them, matcha is made by grinding the entire tea leaf into a fine powder. This means that when you drink matcha, you’re consuming the whole leaf, which offers a more intense flavor and a robust nutritional profile. Traditionally, matcha is at the heart of Japanese tea ceremonies—a ritual that emphasizes mindfulness, respect, and the beauty of simplicity.
A Glimpse Into Matcha’s Heritage
The matcha we serve at Hala Tree Cafe is sourced directly from the Uji region of Kyoto, Japan—a place renowned for its centuries-old tradition of tea cultivation. In Uji, tea farmers nurture their crops with exceptional care, using techniques passed down through generations. The tea plants destined for matcha are grown under shade for several weeks before harvest. This unique growing process increases chlorophyll production, resulting in a bright, vibrant green color, and enhances the levels of amino acids and antioxidants in the leaves.
After the leaves are carefully picked, they are quickly steamed to stop any oxidation, preserving their natural flavor and nutritional properties. The leaves are then dried and stone-ground into a fine powder. This traditional method of production ensures that the matcha retains its delicate texture and pure flavor, free from the harsh notes that can sometimes result from more modern processing techniques.
ARTEAO Organic Ceremonial Grade Matcha
Our new matcha is made using ARTEAO’s Organic All City Blend, which is crafted from a pure Kyoto strain cultivar. What does this mean for you? Simply put, you’re getting a matcha that’s been grown and processed with traditional care. The resulting product is a vibrant green powder with an exceptionally fine texture. Its flavor is characterized by a gentle bitterness balanced with a rich, lingering umami, making it a versatile ingredient that shines both on its own and as part of creative recipes.
ARTEAO’s commitment to quality is evident in every step of their process. Their matcha is USDA Organic, Non-GMO, and Vegan, with no added sugars or artificial colors. By choosing this product, we ensure that every cup you enjoy is free from unnecessary additives and reflects the pure, natural essence of the long tradition of matcha.
Flavor Profile and Versatility of Matcha
When you try our new matcha, you’ll notice its vibrant green color and smooth, silky texture—attributes that come from careful cultivation and traditional processing. The flavor profile is straightforward yet sophisticated: a subtle, pleasant bitterness meets a full-bodied, natural umami. This balance makes it an excellent choice for a wide range of preparations. Enjoy it in a classic matcha latte or combined with other flavors as in our popular Coconut Mango Matcha.
Nutritional Edge
Matcha is naturally rich in antioxidants, particularly catechins. These powerful compounds help to protect the body against oxidative stress. Matcha also contains L-Theanine, an amino acid that supports a state of calm alertness and contributes to the unique, smooth energy that matcha is known for. Because you consume the whole leaf in powdered form, you receive a concentrated dose of these beneficial compounds with every sip.
Preparing and Enjoying Matcha
If you’re new to matcha, the preparation process might seem a bit different from your regular cup of tea. Traditionally, matcha is prepared by sifting the powder into a bowl to remove any clumps, then adding hot water (ideally at around 175°F) to avoid burning the delicate leaves. A bamboo whisk, known as a chasen, is then used to vigorously whisk the matcha until it forms a light, frothy layer. This method not only helps to release the full flavor of the tea but also creates a smooth, creamy texture that enhances the drinking experience.
Why Ceremonial Grade?
Ceremonial grade matcha represents the highest quality available, designed to be enjoyed on its own without any additional ingredients. This level of matcha is produced with a focus on preserving the pure, natural flavors of the tea leaf. At Hala Tree Cafe, our choice to serve ceremonial grade matcha is a reflection of our broader commitment to quality and authenticity. We believe that every ingredient should tell a story—from the fields where it was grown to the cup in your hands.
Our Commitment to Transparency and Quality
At Hala Tree Cafe, transparency is key. We take pride in knowing exactly where our ingredients come from and how they are produced. Our partnership with ARTEAO ensures that we receive matcha that is directly sourced from the Uji region of Kyoto, produced using time-honored methods. This direct sourcing allows us to maintain strict quality control and guarantee that you are enjoying a product that meets our high standards.
When you visit Hala Tree Cafe, you’ll find our new matcha featured alongside our 100% Kona coffee, fresh baked pastries, and lovingly prepared food items. We invite you to try this matcha in its simplest form—as a traditional matcha latte—or experiment with it in our signature creations, such as the Coconut Mango Matcha. No matter how you enjoy it, you’re guaranteed a product that is as authentic as it is enjoyable.
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