How to Prepare Koicha – The Thick Matcha of Japanese Ceremony

You've heard of matcha latte, but have you ever tried koicha ? This thick, intense matcha is the purest, noblest, and most traditional version of Japanese matcha tea.

In this article, discover how to prepare koicha at home, the secrets of the ceremony, and the right steps to enjoy this concentrated umami properly.

💬 What is Koicha?

Koicha (濃茶) means "thick tea" in Japanese. Unlike usucha (light matcha), koicha is denser, creamier, and often served during tea ceremonies ( chanoyu ). It requires:

• A ceremonial grade matcha , ideally from the 1st flush (first harvest)
• Reduced water quantity
• A slow mix, without foam

🎥 Watch the recipe in video:

📱 Click below to see our express Koicha tutorial posted on TikTok:

📝 Ingredients & Equipment

• 3 to 4 grams of our ceremonial matcha
• 30 to 40 ml of hot water (70–80 °C max)
• A matcha bowl ( chawan )
• A good quality bamboo whisk ( chasen )
• A bamboo spoon ( chashaku ) or a precision scale
  

👣 Steps for preparing Koicha

1. Sift the matcha into your bowl. This prevents lumps and ensures a smooth texture.
2. Add the hot water slowly, in two batches if necessary.
3. Mix gently using circular or figure-8 motions, without creating foam. The koicha should remain thick and glossy.

Tip: The texture should be similar to a slightly runny chocolate sauce.

🥄 Tasting

Koicha is not drunk like a classic tea. It is savored slowly , in small quantities, savoring its deep umami, its velvety texture and its noble herbal notes.

It is often accompanied by a wagashi (small Japanese pastry) to balance its intensity.

🎯 Which matcha should you choose for a Koicha?

Koicha requires a very high quality Japanese matcha. Choose a matcha:

• Made from shaded leaves before harvest (tencha)
• Harvested in spring (1st flush)
• Mild taste, low in bitterness, rich in umami

👉 Our Matcha Ceremony Matchamy is perfect for Koicha lovers.

It is imported directly from Japan, guaranteed 100% pure, without additives.

• 🎌 Certified ceremony quality
• 🌿 Deep umami and velvety texture
• 🚚 Fast delivery & airtight packaging

📌 Summary

• Koicha = thick matcha , used in tea ceremonies
• Prepared with 3–4 g of matcha for 30–40 ml of water
• Slowly mixed without foam
• To be enjoyed as a ritual, with a Japanese pastry

Ready to discover the art of Japanese tea in its finest form? 🍵