MATCHAWAN TSUKI
The Tsuki Matchawan (Japanese for “moon”) is a traditional vessel for preparing and drinking matcha. Its irregular ridges and grayish hue resemble the moon’s surface, inspiring its name. In Japan, a celebration dedicated to moon viewing in autumn is known as “Tsukimi.” The festival typically takes place in September, the best time of the year for moon gazing. Tsukimi offers an opportunity for families and friends to gather and spend time together. An essential part of the festival is a special meal known as “tsukimi ryoiru” and matcha tea. It is believed that consuming these during the festival brings good fortune.
The traditional way to prepare matcha comes from the Japanese Tea Ceremony. It involves using a matcha bowl, a bamboo whisk- chasen and a bamboo spoon- chashaku. Place 2 chashaku spoons of matcha (1,5g) in a matcha bowl and pour 100ml of hot water (80 °C). Chasen in hand, vigorously whisk your matcha from the wrist in m-shaped, not circular, motion. In about 20 seconds your bowl should be filled with a perfect jade-green foam. You can add more water now if you like your matcha to be less strong. |
Watch how Hitomi Saito, cofounder of Moya Matcha, prepares perfect matcha.