How to prepare matcha tea while travelling?
Written by Dian VAULTIER·Published
In Brief
- The preparation of matcha, traditionally associated with the chawan bowl and chasen whisk, can be rigorously adapted to the constraints of travel.
- A short chasen whisk or a mini metal balloon whisk is the essential accessory for creating the fine foam characteristic of a well-prepared matcha.
- HOLLIN sommelier expertise: how to prepare matcha tea, explained by a purist Maison of pure tea, based in Sartrouville (Île-de-France) and shipping its grand crus worldwide.
The preparation of Matcha, traditionally associated with the chawan bowl and Chasen, can be rigorously adapted to the constraints of travel. The challenge lies in maintaining a smooth emulsion despite having fewer tools. This article details the essential equipment and techniques for successful matcha on the go.
Essential equipment for travelling
A short chasen whisk or a mini metal balloon whisk is the essential accessory for creating the fine foam characteristic of a Matcha well prepared. These compact versions, often supplied with a case, slip easily into a travel bag without risking deformation of the bamboo tines.
A scoop calibrated to one gram ensures consistent preparation, avoiding excessive astringency caused by improvised overdosing. Precision remains essential, even away from the usual counter setting.
The shaker or sports bottle method
In the absence of a chawan, a rigid-walled sports bottle can produce a satisfactory emulsion when shaken vigorously for around ten seconds. Although less refined than traditional W-shaped whisking, this method produces an acceptable texture for drinking on the go.
First pour a small amount of warm water over the powder to form a smooth paste before adding the rest of the liquid, to prevent lumps that resist mechanical agitation.
Choosing a grade suited to travel
A Matcha for everyday use, packaged in a resealable pouch with an oxygen absorber, better retains its aromatic qualities despite the temperature variations encountered while travelling.
Keeping matcha fresh while travelling
Light, oxygen and heat are the three main enemies of the chlorophyll and catechins found in MatchaAn opaque, airtight container, kept away from heat sources, significantly limits deterioration of the product during travel.
It is preferable to divide your supply into small individual portions rather than carry a large container that is opened regularly, as this accelerates oxidation through contact with the ambient air.
The purist selection of HOLLIN
The HOLLIN du Goût counter, located at 22 avenue de la République in Sartrouville, is open Monday to Saturday from 10h to 20h. We offer packaging suited to travel, as well as compact accessories designed for enthusiasts of Matcha on the go.
Personalised advice helps you choose the most suitable grade and format according to how often and in what context you intend to enjoy it, whether travelling or in everyday life.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can you prepare authentic matcha without a chawan?
- Yes, a rigid-walled sports bottle or a small airtight container can produce a satisfactory emulsion when shaken vigorously. The result remains less refined than traditional whisking with a chasen, but is perfectly suitable while travelling.
- Which matcha should you choose for travelling?
- A quality matcha for everyday use, packaged in a resealable pouch with an oxygen absorber, withstands the temperature and light variations encountered while travelling better than a ceremonial matchal more delicate.
- How can you avoid lumps without a traditional whisk?
- First pour a small amount of warm water over the powder to form a smooth paste before adding the rest of the liquid. This preliminary step makes emulsification considerably easier, even with simple mechanical agitation.