Matcha Green Tea Latte

Instructions

1. Sift the matcha
   Using a fine mesh strainer, sift the matcha powder into a wide bowl or mug to remove any clumps. This ensures a smooth texture in your final latte.
2. Create the matcha paste
   Add the hot water (not boiling, ideally 175°F/80°C) to the sifted matcha. Using a bamboo whisk or small regular whisk, vigorously whisk in a zigzag motion until the mixture becomes a smooth, clump-free paste with a slight foam on top.
3. Heat and froth the milk
   In a small saucepan, gently heat the milk until steaming but not boiling (about 150°F/65°C). If using a milk frother, froth until creamy and foamy. Alternatively, use a blender or whisk vigorously by hand to create some foam.
4. Combine and sweeten
   Add the honey or maple syrup and optional vanilla extract to the matcha paste and stir to combine. Pour the warm frothed milk over the sweetened matcha paste, holding back the foam with a spoon.
5. Finish and serve
   Gently stir to combine, then spoon the reserved milk foam on top. Dust lightly with additional matcha powder for garnish if desired. For an iced version, let the matcha mixture cool, then pour over ice and add cold milk instead of heated milk.