Alternatives to matcha? Discover new flavors and equally healthy choices

Matcha has taken the world by storm in recent years. The light green tea powder from Japan has found its way into everything from lattes and smoothies to cakes and energy balls. But what do you do when matcha is out of stock, or you want a milder taste? Luckily, there are many fantastic alternatives - both within green tea and other types of tea - that give you many of the same health benefits , but with their own taste and character.

What makes matcha so special?

Matcha is a type of green tea where the whole tea leaf is ground into a powder, so you get all the nutrients in the leaf. It provides a high concentration of antioxidants, the amino acid L-theanine and caffeine. The taste is strong, green and slightly vegetal, with a sweetness that balances the bitterness.

But it is also this intense flavor that makes matcha not everyone fall head over heels for. Some people find the taste too “grassy” or bitter, and then it may be a good idea to explore other teas that have a milder flavor but still have good health properties.

1. Sencha - the classic Japanese green tea

Sencha is Japan's most popular green tea and a natural first choice for those who want an alternative to matcha. It is made from whole tea leaves that are steamed to preserve the fresh green color and pure taste.

Taste: Fresh, slightly vegetal with hints of sweetness and a mild umami.
Health benefits: Rich in antioxidants (catechins), vitamin C and L-theanine, but with a more moderate caffeine profile than matcha.
Suitable for: Those who want a milder green tea, but still with a distinct green tea character.

2. Gyokuro - Japan's "shadow gem"

Gyokuro is made in the same way as matcha during the harvest phase, the tea bushes are shaded for up to three weeks before harvest to increase chlorophyll and amino acids. The difference is that the leaves are not ground into a powder, but brewed whole.

Taste: Sweet, full-bodied and rich in umami with a soft mouthfeel.
Health benefits: High content of L-theanine, caffeine and antioxidants, quite similar to matcha, but without the intense powdered drink.
Suitable for: Those who want the nutritional profile of matcha, but a smoother and more elegant drinking experience.

3. Dragon Well (Long Jing) - China's Pride

Dragon Well is China's most famous green tea. It is wok-dried after picking, giving it a nutty and lightly toasted flavor rather than the steamed character found in Japanese teas.

Taste: Mild, nutty, with a delicate sweetness and freshness.
Health benefits: Good source of antioxidants and polyphenols, and lower caffeine content than matcha.
Suitable for: Those who want green tea without the “grassy” taste.

4. Hojicha - Roasted Japanese Green Tea

Hojicha has recently become a bit popular on social media and in the news as an alternative to matcha. It is classified as green tea, but does not taste vegetal/green. It is made from green tea leaves that are roasted over high heat. This gives it a completely different taste than traditional green tea.

Taste: Soft, nutty and slightly caramelized, with low bitterness.
Health benefits: Retains many of green tea's antioxidants but has low caffeine content.
Suitable for: Those who want green tea in the evening, or want a milder drink with less caffeine.

5. Genmaicha - Green tea with toasted rice

Genmaicha combines green tea (often sencha or bancha) with toasted brown rice. The result is a warm, round and slightly nutty flavor that is suitable for many occasions.

Taste: Mild, toasted, with hints of popcorn and green notes.
Health benefits: Lower caffeine content, while providing antioxidants from the tea.
Suitable for: Beginners to green tea, or those who want a tea that goes well with food.

6. White Teas - Mild and Natural Sweetness

White teas like Silver Needle or White Peony have a mild, floral flavor and are the least processed of all teas.

Taste: Light, sweet and delicate.
Health benefits: High in antioxidants and low in caffeine.
Suitable for: Those who want a calmer caffeine kick and a subtle flavor.

7. Oolong Tea - The Balance Between Green and Black

Oolong tea can be a good option for those who want more depth of flavor than green tea, but not as strong as black tea.

Taste: Varies from light and floral to full-bodied and toasted.
Health benefits: Contains antioxidants, theanine and moderate amounts of caffeine.
Suitable for: Tea enthusiasts who want to explore a wider range of flavors.

Why consider alternatives to matcha?

While matcha has many benefits, not everyone likes the taste or caffeine content. Alternatives like Sencha, Gyokuro, or Hojicha allow you to enjoy the health benefits of the tea with a flavor that better suits your personal preference.

By trying different types of tea, you can also vary the antioxidant profile and caffeine level you consume, and experience a richer range of flavors.

Conclusion

Matcha is a wonderful drink, but it's not the only green tea option. Whether you're looking for something milder, nuttier, or simply a new flavor experience, there are plenty of options. Experiment and find your new favorite, you might find that you like the variety even better than sticking to one type of tea.