Matcha Cardamom Latte Recipe
When in need of some energy and comforting warmth in the morning (or any time, really), this recipe is a delicious treat with many benefits.
Ingredients:
1 cup non-dairy milk (almond or rice milk works well)
½ tsp matcha powder
½ tsp cardamom powder
1 tsp shatavari powder
1 tsp ghee
2 tsp maple syrup or honey (or to taste)
First, put a small amount of hot (not boiling) water in a cup with the matcha powder. Whisk until the matcha has completely dissolved and is evenly distributed in the water. A traditional Japanese matcha whisk is ideal, but any small whisk will do. Afterwards, add the cardamom and shatavari powder and stir well.
Add milk to a small saucepan and cook on medium high heat until it starts to gently bubble. If you’re lucky enough to have a frother, use this as your last step to add some foam to the milk. Lastly, pour the hot milk into the matcha, add ghee, maple syrup and stir.
Cardamom is often talked about mainly because it’s delicious and somehow adds an element of luxury to any recipe it’s a part of. Aside from being a delight to consume, cardamom is associated with being beneficial for health in many ways. It is a herb that contains antioxidants, is antibacterial and can improve digestion.
Shatavari is an adaptogen that is widely used in India for its hormonal and reproductive balancing properties for both males and females. This is an optional ingredient, and any adaptogen of your choice can be substituted in its place. Some other examples include ashwagandha, reishi and he shou wu. Keep in mind that each adaptogen may possess a different flavor and texture that will alter the recipe.
Ghee is clarified butter and is known for creating comfort, warmth and lubrication in the body. It also contains fat soluble vitamins such as Vitamin A, E and K. If wanting to keep the latte recipe vegan, the ghee can be removed. A great alternative is coconut oil which is known to be a metabolism booster.
Last but not least, matcha is a form of green tea traditionally grown and prepared in Japan. Its popularity is largely due to its nutrient dense nature, with antioxidant content ten times that of regular green tea and associations with improved liver, kidney, heart and brain health. It's wonderful for sustained energy throughout the day and has a pleasant, rich flavor.
This latte is deeply nourishing, calming and a wonderful treat for when the temperature drops. It’s also a delicious way to incorporate daily adaptogens, antioxidants and healthy fats to encourage balanced hormonal, immune and skin health. Try taking a few extra minutes to throw this together and carry with you on your chilly adventures - you won’t regret it!
