Strawberry Matcha Latte With Coconut Milk
Highlighted under: Clean Eating Kitchen
I love indulging in a delicious strawberry matcha latte made with creamy coconut milk! It's a refreshing twist on traditional matcha, offering a unique blend of flavors that brighten my mornings. The vibrant color and delightful taste are incredibly satisfying, and the preparation is straightforward. With the earthy notes of matcha perfectly complemented by the sweetness of strawberries, each sip is a true delight. This recipe has become my go-to for an energizing start to the day and a wonderful way to enjoy the health benefits of matcha!
When I first decided to experiment with matcha, I never imagined I would fall in love with combining it with strawberries. As I started crafting this latte, I realized that the sweetness of the strawberries brought out the natural umami flavors of the matcha. I recommend using fresh strawberries for the best results because they lend a vibrant color and taste that frozen berries just can't match.
One of my favorite tips while making this latte is to gently whisk the matcha powder with a small amount of hot water before adding it to the coconut milk. This ensures that there are no lumps and allows the grassy notes of the matcha to flourish. The experience of sipping this luscious drink has become my favorite way to enjoy afternoons!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The perfect balance of strawberry sweetness and earthy matcha flavor
- Coconut milk adds a creamy texture that's smooth and rich
- A refreshing drink that's great for any time of day
Mastering the Matcha
Achieving the right consistency when whisking matcha is crucial for a smooth drink. Start by using a high-quality matcha powder, as this will enhance the flavor of your latte significantly. Whisk the matcha with hot water at around 175°F (80°C). A bamboo whisk, known as a 'chasen,' works best to create a frothy texture, but a small whisk or even a milk frother can do the job if you don’t have one. The goal is to mix until the powder is fully dissolved and the mixture is free of lumps, resulting in a glossy, vibrant green paste.
Note that matcha can become bitter if over-whisked or subjected to boiling water. If you notice a strong, unpleasant flavor, it may have been overheated. In such cases, simply adjust the water temperature on your next attempt. Remember, the right balance here is essential to ensure that the earthy tones of the matcha pair well with the sweet strawberries, crafting a harmonious flavor profile.
Strawberry Selection and Preparation
When it comes to the strawberries, freshness is key for optimal flavor. Look for ripe, organic strawberries that are bright red and plump. These will offer the best sweetness and juiciness, elevating your latte. Avoid overripe or mushy berries as they can impart an off-taste to your drink. Once selected, hulled and sliced strawberries are best blended immediately to preserve their flavor and nutrients, giving you a fresher taste.
If strawberries are out of season, feel free to substitute with other berries such as raspberries or blueberries; just note that this will alter the flavor slightly. Additionally, frozen strawberries work as a viable alternative and can lend a thicker consistency to the blend, but make sure to thaw them before blending for the best results.
Storage and Serving Suggestions
While best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the strawberry blend ahead of time. Storing the strawberry puree in an airtight container in the refrigerator will last for about two days. Stir well before using to reincorporate any separated juices. However, I recommend consuming the matcha latte immediately after preparation, as matcha can lose its vibrant color and slight bitterness can develop over time when exposed to light and air.
For serving variations, this drink tastes fantastic hot as well. Simply skip the ice cubes and heat the coconut milk gently on the stove until warm. You can also experiment with flavored coconut milk, such as vanilla or even chocolate, for a unique twist. Don’t hesitate to top your latte with a sprinkle of sesame seeds or shredded coconut for added texture and flavor contrast.
Ingredients
Gather these fresh ingredients to create your strawberry matcha latte:
Ingredients for Strawberry Matcha Latte
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 teaspoon matcha powder
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
- Ice cubes
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s start making this delightful drink!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare your latte:
Prepare the Matcha
In a small bowl, whisk the matcha powder with 2 tablespoons of hot water until smooth. Ensure there are no lumps.
Blend the Strawberries
In a blender, combine the sliced strawberries with a splash of coconut milk. Blend until smooth and set aside.
Combine Ingredients
In a glass or serving cup, layer the blended strawberries at the bottom. Pour in the coconut milk followed by the whisked matcha on top.
Sweeten if Desired
Add honey or maple syrup to taste, stirring gently to combine the flavors.
Serve
Add ice cubes if you wish to enjoy it cold. Stir gently and enjoy your refreshing strawberry matcha latte!
Your delicious and vibrant strawberry matcha latte is now ready to sip!
Pro Tips
- For an extra touch, garnish your latte with a few whole strawberries on top or a sprinkle of matcha powder for visual appeal.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have leftover matcha mixture, you can store it in the fridge for a day; however, it’s best to consume it fresh to maintain its flavor and nutritional benefits. A good tip is to make a larger batch if you know you’ll want multiple servings. Just double the amount of matcha and coconut milk according to the same ratio. Remember to whisk each serving individually for the best texture.
One common issue people face is bitterness from the matcha. If yours ends up too bitter, you could try adding a dash more honey or maple syrup to balance the flavors. Alternatively, decreasing the amount of matcha powder used can help find a milder taste.
Nutritional Benefits
This Strawberry Matcha Latte is not just delicious but also packed with health benefits. Matcha is known for its high antioxidant content, which could help support a healthy metabolism and provide sustained energy, making it an excellent choice for a morning boost. The coconut milk adds healthy fats that promote satiety, keeping you full longer, and strawberries are rich in vitamin C, which helps boost your immune system.
Including this drink in your routine can provide a delightful way to elevate your breakfast or snack. Additionally, the combination of matcha and strawberries may also improve mood due to the presence of certain nutrients that can positively impact brain functions. Who wouldn’t want a drink that tastes good and is beneficial for their wellbeing?
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen strawberries instead?
Yes, but fresh strawberries yield the best flavor and color. If using frozen, let them thaw slightly before blending.
→ Is there a dairy-free option for the milk?
Absolutely! Coconut milk is naturally dairy-free, but you can also use almond milk or oat milk for a different flavor.
→ Can I make this latte hot?
Yes! Just heat the coconut milk without boiling it, and follow the same steps to combine the ingredients.
→ What can I substitute for matcha powder?
If you don't have matcha, you could use green tea powder, but keep in mind that the flavor will differ.
Strawberry Matcha Latte With Coconut Milk
I love indulging in a delicious strawberry matcha latte made with creamy coconut milk! It's a refreshing twist on traditional matcha, offering a unique blend of flavors that brighten my mornings. The vibrant color and delightful taste are incredibly satisfying, and the preparation is straightforward. With the earthy notes of matcha perfectly complemented by the sweetness of strawberries, each sip is a true delight. This recipe has become my go-to for an energizing start to the day and a wonderful way to enjoy the health benefits of matcha!
Created by: Madison Cole
Recipe Type: Clean Eating Kitchen
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 2 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients for Strawberry Matcha Latte
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 teaspoon matcha powder
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
- Ice cubes
How-To Steps
In a small bowl, whisk the matcha powder with 2 tablespoons of hot water until smooth. Ensure there are no lumps.
In a blender, combine the sliced strawberries with a splash of coconut milk. Blend until smooth and set aside.
In a glass or serving cup, layer the blended strawberries at the bottom. Pour in the coconut milk followed by the whisked matcha on top.
Add honey or maple syrup to taste, stirring gently to combine the flavors.
Add ice cubes if you wish to enjoy it cold. Stir gently and enjoy your refreshing strawberry matcha latte!
Extra Tips
- For an extra touch, garnish your latte with a few whole strawberries on top or a sprinkle of matcha powder for visual appeal.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Total Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 18g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 2g