For the past few weeks I’ve developed a new morning ritual: a matcha latte. I’m not usually a fan of hot drinks – and I hate coffee – so the introduction of a warm cup of tea is new to me. I discovered this drink at the Whole Foods coffee bar, but at $5 a pop it isn’t a habit I can afford on a daily basis. So, like most things, I opt for a homemade version that is cheaper and tastier (and more convenient!) anyway.

Matcha has a earthy, almost grassy flavor that I absolutely love. It doesn’t assault my system with a mega shot of caffeine, the main reason I was drawn to it in the first place. There are many health claims – energy booster! calorie burner! anti-aging! – that I cannot attest to but won’t argue against. I just happen to like the taste.

I make my homemade matcha latte in a mason jar for a few reasons. 1) it is portable 2) it is reusable and isn’t plastic 3) thanks to the tight fitting lid it makes shaking the latte super easy.

The tea will settle at the bottom if you don’t drink it all quickly, so an occasional swirl helps disperse the flavor. While some people might be annoyed at this characteristic, it doesn’t even sort of bother me.

Homemade Matcha Latte

1 cup almond milk

1/2 cup water

1 teaspoon organic matcha (I use Kiss Me Organics brand)

a bit of honey, optional

Combine almond milk and water in a mason jar. Microwave for 2 minutes and 30 seconds.  Carefully remove from the microwave and gently stir in the honey.  Pour in matcha, screw on the lid, and shake until matcha is incorporated and milk is a bit frothy.

Here is the matcha I use: http://astore.amazon.com/homemamothe06-20/detail/B00OPJSLPS