Why Does Matcha Taste Bitter? (And How to Fix It!)
If you’ve ever tried matcha and thought, “This tastes bitter!”, you’re not alone. Bitterness is probably the most common complaint from people who are new to matcha. They take one sip and think, “Why does it taste like grass?” or even worse, they assume they’ve been scammed into buying low-quality powder.
But the truth is, bitterness in matcha isn’t necessarily a bad thing – and it definitely doesn’t always mean poor quality.
Let’s dive into why matcha can taste bitter, how to avoid it, and how you can actually enjoy that little kick of bitterness when it’s done right.
Is Bitterness a Sign of Bad Matcha?
The short answer? Not always. It’s a common misconception that bitterness equals low quality, but that’s not entirely accurate. While some cheap matcha powders are overly bitter and lack depth of flavour, even high-quality matcha can have a slight bitterness. In fact, a touch of bitterness can enhance the overall taste, especially when balanced with natural sweetness and umami.
Good matcha should have a well-rounded flavour profile that includes bitterness, grassy notes, and a hint of natural sweetness. The key is balance – if it’s overwhelmingly bitter, something probably went wrong during preparation.
It’s Not Always the Matcha’s Fault
So, you’ve spent a good amount on premium matcha, only to find it tastes bitter. Frustrating, right? But here’s the thing: It might not be the matcha’s fault – it could be how you’re preparing it. Matcha is incredibly delicate and needs to be treated with care, especially when it comes to water temperature.
Water Temperature Matters
One of the biggest mistakes people make is using boiling water. If you’re pouring 100°C water over your matcha, you’re essentially burning it. This can make it taste harsh and unpleasant. The ideal temperature range is around 70°C to 80°C. Anything hotter than that, and you’re risking bitterness.
For a more detailed guide on how to get the perfect brew every time, check out our blog: “Perfect Water Temperature for Brewing Matcha Powder.”
Why Does Organic Matcha Taste More Bitter?
One thing to keep in mind is that organic matcha can naturally have a slightly more bitter and earthy taste compared to non-organic varieties. This is because organic matcha is grown without synthetic fertilisers or pesticides, allowing the tea plants to develop a more robust flavour profile.
While it might taste a bit stronger, it’s also healthier and more natural, giving you the purest form of matcha without any unwanted chemicals. Plus, the slightly bolder taste often means higher levels of antioxidants and chlorophyll, making it a great choice for those seeking maximum health benefits.
Want to learn more about why organic matcha tastes different? Check out our blog: “Organic vs Non-Organic Matcha: Everything You Need to Know."
How to Make Matcha That’s Not Bitter
Now that you know why bitterness happens, here’s how to make sure your matcha tastes smooth and enjoyable:
1. Use the Right Temperature
As mentioned, keep the water between 70°C and 80°C. If you don’t have a thermometer, let your boiled water sit for a minute or two to cool down before using it.
2. Sift Your Matcha
Clumps can also affect the texture and taste, making it feel gritty and bitter. Sifting breaks up any lumps, giving you a smoother result.
3. Whisk Properly
Use a bamboo whisk (chasen) and whisk in a quick “W” or zig-zag motion to create a frothy, smooth texture. For a full guide on mastering your whisking technique, check out our blog: “How to Whisk Matcha Like a Pro."
4. Adjust Your Ratios
Sometimes, too much powder can result in a bitter, overpowering taste. Start with about 1 to 2 grams of matcha (about half a teaspoon) for 60-80 ml of water and adjust to your preference.
5. Try Different Matcha Grades
Ceremonial grade matcha tends to be less bitter compared to culinary grade, which is more suitable for lattes and baking. To dive deeper into the differences and find the perfect matcha for your needs, check out our blog: “The Ultimate Guide to Understanding Matcha Grades."
Embracing Bitterness
If you’re still not convinced about bitterness, don’t worry – you don’t have to force yourself to like it. But it’s worth giving it a fair shot.
Some people find that once they get used to it, the bitterness actually balances out the natural sweetness and umami of good-quality matcha. It’s all about finding the right way to prepare it and, most importantly, using the right temperature.
FAQs about Matcha Bitterness
1. Can I sweeten my matcha to reduce bitterness?
Absolutely! A little honey, agave, or a dash of milk can mellow out the bitterness without completely masking the flavour.
2. Does ceremonial matcha taste less bitter than culinary grade?
Yes, typically. Ceremonial grade is made from younger, more tender leaves, giving it a sweeter, smoother flavour profile. Culinary grade, on the other hand, tends to be a bit stronger and more bitter. For a more detailed comparison, check out our blog: “Ceremonial vs Culinary Matcha: What’s the Difference?”
3. Why does matcha sometimes taste like grass?
That grassy, vegetal taste comes from the chlorophyll in the tea leaves. High-quality matcha should have a fresh, almost sweet grassy note rather than an overly earthy one. To learn more, read our guide about “Why Does Your Matcha Taste Like Grass?”
4. Can I mix matcha with other flavours to cut the bitterness?
Yes! You can make flavoured lattes or mix matcha with vanilla, and coconut milk, or even add it to smoothies. This helps balance the bitterness while keeping the benefits intact.
Final Thoughts
Don’t be put off by matcha’s bitterness! With the right preparation and a bit of practice, you’ll discover how enjoyable it can be. Remember, it’s not about masking the flavour but bringing out the best of what matcha has to offer. Whether you like it straight up or mixed into a latte, learning how to handle your matcha makes all the difference.
If you’re still not sure where to start, why not try our premium matcha powders? We carefully select our matcha to deliver a balanced, rich flavour with just the right amount of natural bitterness. Give it a go – you might just find your new favourite drink!
