Matcha is an ancient ingredient that’s become a massive food trend, finding its way into all kinds of drinks, desserts, and snacks. Discover what makes this green powder special and why it makes our Matcha Oat Smoothie taste so good. 

What is Matcha?

Matcha is a finely ground powder made from shade-grown green tea leaves. Tea plants grown in the shade produce more chlorophyll and amino acids, which is what gives matcha its bright green color and earthy, umami taste. Matcha’s roots go back to China, where the process of crushing tea leaves into powder began, and Japan, where matcha is used in tea ceremonies.

Why is Matcha Good for You?

As numerous studies have shown, green tea is good for you, and matcha is no exception. Here are some of matcha’s health benefits:

  • Antioxidants. Matcha is loaded with antioxidants, especially catechins, which protect your body’s cells, lower your risk of certain diseases, and promote good heart health.
  • Chlorophyll. Thanks to its shady upbringing, matcha is rich in chlorophyll, which studies have linked to better cognitive function and brain health.
  • Caffeine. Matcha contains a moderate amount of caffeine that’s slowly released into the bloodstream for a boost of energy without the jitters or crash you get from coffee and sugary energy drinks.
  • Amino Acids. Matcha is a good source of amino acids like L-theanine, which helps combat stress and anxiety, and aids in lowering blood pressure.
  • Vitamins and Minerals. Matcha is a good source of minerals like potassium, magnesium, and zinc, as well as vitamins A, B1, B2, and C.

Matcha Oat Smoothie

In our Matcha Oat Smoothie, matcha gets nutritional assistance from two ingredients that make this smoothie dairy free and delicious. There are lots of plant-based milks you can use in this recipe, and we chose soy milk because it’s a great source of high-quality protein and it supports heart, brain, and overall health. Oats add extra creaminess and lots of fiber, a nutrient 90% of Americans fail to get enough of in their diet.

A smoothie this good for you must be difficult to make, right? Not at all—follow this simple step-by-step guide to making the perfect Matcha Oat Smoothie.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups soy milk
  • 4 dates
  • 1 Tbsp matcha green tea powder
  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 3 frozen bananas

Step 1: Load & Lock

Place all ingredients into the Vitamix container in the order listed and secure the lid.

Step 2: Blend & Tamp

Run the Smoothie Program or start the blender on its lowest speed, then quickly increase to its highest speed. Blend for 40–50 seconds, using the tamper to push ingredients toward the blades.

Step 3: Pour & Enjoy

Pour into your favorite glass. Garnish with mint leaves, coconut flakes, or whatever you’re in the mood for and enjoy.