When talking about Japanese tea, it's hard to ignore the famous matcha. But have you ever heard of tencha? Perhaps the name doesn't ring a bell, but it is this variety of tea that plays a crucial role in the production of authentic, high-quality matcha. In this article, we will explore in depth what tencha is, its benefits, and why it deserves a place in your daily routine to enrich your wellbeing.
What is tencha?
Tencha is a special type of Japanese green tea, known for being the key ingredient in the traditional production of matcha. Its cultivation and processing are distinguished by specific methods, carefully preserved and passed down from generation to generation in Japan.
What characterizes tencha is above all its very special cultivation process. A few weeks before harvest, the tea plants are shaded to reduce their direct exposure to the sun. This process increases the chlorophyll content of the leaves, giving them a darker colour and a unique aromatic profile, rich in umami.
The stages of cultivation
- Shading of plants: Tea plants are shaded to limit sunlight, thereby increasing chlorophyll.
- Careful harvesting: Only the tender young leaves are picked by hand.
- Drying without rolling: Unlike other green teas, tencha is not rolled after harvesting.
This method preserves the cellular structure of the leaves, ensuring a final product with high purity and nutrient concentration. Later, these leaves will be transformed into a fine powder: the famous matcha.
The nutritional benefits of tencha
One of the main reasons why tencha and, by extension, matcha are so popular among tea enthusiasts is their many nutritional benefits. The specific techniques used to grow and process tencha allow several essential nutrients to be concentrated.
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First of all, antioxidants. Tencha is particularly rich in catechins, a type of powerful antioxidant that helps fight free radicals in the body, thereby reducing the risk of chronic diseases. In addition, thanks to its high content of L-theanine, an amino acid, tencha provides a feeling of relaxation while keeping the mind alert, a perfect balance between relaxation and focus.
Help with stress management
The presence of L-theanine greatly contributes to reducing stress and anxiety. This component also moderates the stimulating effect of caffeine, providing smooth, sustained energy without the typical spikes associated with coffee.
In addition, the vitamins A, C, and E found in tencha support immune health, vision, and skin. Dietary fiber adds another significant benefit, aiding digestion and improving bowel regularity.
The art of preparing matcha, tencha powder
To fully appreciate the unique qualities of tencha (powdered tea), preparing matcha requires a few precise but relatively simple steps. Here's how to make a perfectly balanced and flavoursome cup of matcha:
- Sift a teaspoon of matcha (tencha powder) to remove any lumps.
- Add 70 ml of hot water (approximately 80°C, not boiling) to a special matcha bowl.
- Use a bamboo whisk to whisk vigorously until you obtain a smooth froth on top.
This delicate art of preparation ensures that all the nutrients and flavours of tencha are optimally released, ensuring a complete sensory experience with every sip.
Why choose tencha for your daily routine?
You may be wondering why you should incorporate tencha or matcha derived from it into your daily routine. Beyond its health benefits, choosing tencha also means making a conscious and environmentally friendly choice. The cultivation of tencha, like many other Japanese agricultural practices, often follows sustainable and earth-friendly methods.
A commitment to environmental quality
Choosing matcha (made from tencha) means supporting local farms that respect ancestral traditions while adopting environmentally friendly practices. This not only reduces your carbon footprint but also encourages greener agriculture. For healthcare professionals and wellbeing enthusiasts, this responsible approach adds an extra dimension to your consumption, combining taste pleasure with a sense of duty.
Easy to integrate into various recipes
In addition, tencha and matcha can be easily incorporated into various culinary preparations. Whether in revitalizing smoothies, gourmet desserts, or even savory dishes, the wide range of possible uses makes tencha a versatile ingredient. Take, for example, an energizing smoothie:
- Sift a teaspoon of matcha.
- Add a ripe banana, 250 ml of almond milk, and a handful of fresh spinach.
- Blend everything together to obtain a rich and vibrant drink.
A mindfulness ritual
Beyond its nutritional benefits, incorporating tencha into your daily routine can also become a true mindfulness ritual. Taking the time to prepare and savor a cup of matcha can transform an ordinary break into a moment of serenity and inner connection. This meditative process not only promotes peace of mind but also reinforces gratitude for the little things in life.
Create a multisensory experience
When preparing matcha, all your senses are engaged: the smooth touch of the bamboo whisk, the sweet scent of freshly ground tea leaves, the visual beauty of the green powder vibrating in the heated water, and the rich, velvety umami taste with every sip. Incorporating such rituals allows you to live more intensely and joyfully.
So choosing tencha is not simply a matter of benefiting from its nutritional and energy-boosting properties, but also of adopting a more harmonious and balanced lifestyle. It then becomes clear that the world of tea, and matcha in particular, has a lot to offer people who are concerned about their wellbeing and are essentially searching for vitality and authenticity.
>>> Discover our item on the origins of matcha to learn more
