How to whisk the perfect cup of ceremonial matcha (step by step)

Ceremonial matcha deserves 60 seconds of care. Get the ratio, temperature and technique right and you'll be rewarded with a smooth, lump-free, naturally sweet cup every time. Here's how.

What you'll need

• 1 tablespoon (about 10g) Mind Full Matcha
• A bamboo whisk (chasen) or a small electric frother
• A bowl or wide mug
• Hot water, just off the boil
• Your milk of choice (optional, for a latte)

Step by step

1. Sift

Sift the matcha into your bowl to break up any clumps. This single step is the difference between silky and lumpy.

2. Get the water temperature right

Use water at around 80°C - hot, but not boiling. Boiling water scorches matcha and turns it bitter. No thermometer? Boil the kettle, then let it stand for two minutes.

3. Add a little water first

Pour in just 60ml of hot water. Starting with a small amount lets you whisk it into a smooth paste before adding more.

4. Whisk briskly

Whisk in a light "W" or "M" motion - from the wrist, not the arm - for 15–20 seconds, until a fine green froth forms. You're aerating, not stirring.

5. Top up and serve

Enjoy as a straight cup with a little more hot water, or pour over 150–200ml of hot or cold milk for a latte. Sweeten to taste, though good ceremonial matcha rarely needs it. For a full latte recipe including an iced version, see how to make a lion's mane matcha latte (hot or iced).

Three tips for a better cup

• Mind the heat: if your matcha tastes bitter, your water was too hot.
• Keep it fresh: store the pouch sealed, cool and dark, and use within a few weeks of opening.
• No whisk? No problem: a lidded jar, well shaken, or a handheld frother both work brilliantly.

Because Mind Full Matcha blends ceremonial matcha with lion's mane, that same simple cup doubles as a calm, clear-headed daily ritual. If you're curious about what lion's mane actually does and the science behind the pairing, matcha lion's mane: the science-backed stack for calm focus is a good place to start.

Put it into practice: stock up on Mind Full Matcha and make your first cup count.