The most important matcha tools explained
If you want to prepare matcha the Japanese way, you'll need a few specific tools for the traditional experience. They enhance the matcha-drinking experience and give it a richer, more refined flavor. They often serve not only a practical purpose but also a symbolic and aesthetic significance.
Matcha bowl or chawan
The chawan is a bowl used to make matcha. It's a somewhat larger bowl, about 13 cm in diameter and 7 cm high. The bamboo whisk creates more space to create a beautiful layer of foam. The traditional matcha bowl is usually made of ceramic or porcelain and often has a rustic look. Nowadays, there are also transparent glass bowls that bring out the green color of the matcha at its best. A chawan is designed to ensure the matcha is mixed properly and its aromas are well preserved.
Everything about a matcha bowl has a symbolic or aesthetic meaning. Imperfections, for example, are valued as wabi-sabi, the symbolism of transience. Crackled bowls are also valued in this way. Earthy tones symbolize tranquility and simplicity, while cherry blossoms evoke spring.
Texts or other decorations sometimes refer to Zen. In Japan, however, the simple and sober ones are most valued.
In Japan, seasonal bowls are often used: in winter, thicker, deeper bowls are used to retain heat. In summer, thinner, wider bowls are used to cool the matcha faster.
Special chawans often have a beautiful or interesting front that is turned towards the guest during a ceremony as a gesture of respect. For detailed information on matcha bowls, see Blog 7: Fokko's chawan.
Bamboo beater or whisk / chasen
A whisk is a traditional bamboo whisk used to mix matcha with matcha. This tool ensures the matcha is thoroughly mixed with the water and creates a beautiful foam. A whisk is handcrafted from a single piece of bamboo. This material is chosen because it doesn't affect the taste of the matcha.
A well-made whisk is light, with finely curved teeth, and helps you prepare perfect matcha without lumps. These teeth are also called pongs. The more pongs, the finer the texture of the foam. In our webshop, we sell a matcha whisk with 100 pongs and a matcha whisk with 120 pongs .
The whisk is used in a W-shaped (or M-shaped, if you prefer) motion to whip up the matcha. This creates a perfectly creamy and airy texture.
Bamboo spoon or chashaku
A bamboo spoon is used to measure out the correct amount of matcha. It's a narrow, curved spoon that makes it easy to scoop the matcha from a can or bag. This is essential, as the amount of matcha you use affects the flavor and texture of your drink. (A teaspoon is a no-go, as it can impart a metallic taste to the matcha.) The chashaku helps measure 1-2 grams of matcha per serving, ensuring the perfect balance of flavor and nutrients. Like a bamboo whisk, the chashaku is carefully crafted from a single piece of bamboo to preserve the delicate flavor of the matcha.
Curious about traditional matcha tools? Order your own chasen, chawan, and chashaku and start making your perfect matcha! The webshop offers various matcha set deals. So be sure to check out The Matcha Man's webshop.