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Matcha Cocktail

A vibrant green cocktail blending ceremonial-grade matcha with citrus, simple syrup, and your choice of vodka or gin, topped with sparkling water for a refreshing aperitif.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Course: Drinks and Beverages
Cuisine: Japanese-inspired Contemporary
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 1 teaspoon matcha powder ceremonial grade, not culinary
  • 2 ounces hot water about 60ml, 160-180°F
  • 0.75 ounce fresh lemon juice about 22ml
  • 0.5 ounce simple syrup about 15ml
  • 1.5 ounces vodka or gin about 45ml
  • 4-5 ice cubes for shaking
  • 1 ounce sparkling water or club soda optional
  • Fresh lemon wheel or twist for garnish

Equipment

  • Matcha whisk (chasen) or small hand whisk
  • Small bowl or matcha bowl (chawan)
  • Cocktail shaker or mixing vessel
  • Jigger
  • Cocktail glass or coupe glass
  • Bar spoon or small stirring spoon
  • Fine mesh strainer

Method
 

  1. Sift 1 teaspoon matcha powder through a fine mesh strainer into a small bowl to remove clumps.
  2. Use 2 fluid ounces water at the temperature recommended on your matcha package. Check with a thermometer if aiming for 160–180°F; cooling boiling water for 30 seconds does not establish that temperature.
  3. Pour the hot water into the bowl with the sifted matcha powder and whisk vigorously for 20-30 seconds until frothy and smooth.
  4. Add 0.75 ounce fresh lemon juice and 0.5 ounce simple syrup to a cocktail shaker, then stir briefly to combine.
  5. Pour 1.5 ounces vodka or gin into the shaker.
  6. Add 4-5 ice cubes to the shaker and shake vigorously for 10 seconds to chill and combine.
  7. Pour the whisked matcha into the serving glass. It is the tea component, not a guaranteed separate layer.
  8. Strain the chilled spirit, citrus and syrup mixture into the glass with the matcha and stir to combine. Aim for an even green color and flavor, not a lasting layered effect.
  9. Top with 1 ounce sparkling water or club soda if desired and garnish with a fresh lemon wheel or twist.

Notes

Serve promptly for a chilled, evenly mixed drink. A lasting layered effect is not established by this method. Matcha contains caffeine. For an alcohol-free version, omit vodka or gin and check any added flavorings.