Quick Answer
Yes, you can absolutely put protein powder in your matcha! This is a great way to add extra protein and nutrients to your green tea. The protein powder will mix right in and give your matcha a creamier, frothier texture. Whey, plant-based, collagen, or other protein powders all work well. Start with just a spoonful mixed into your cup of matcha to avoid overpowering the tea flavor.
Explaining Matcha
Matcha is a type of green tea made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant. What makes matcha unique is that the whole leaf is ground up into a fine powder rather than just steeping the leaves in hot water. This allows you to ingest the entire leaf and get a more concentrated dose of antioxidants, amino acids, and other beneficial compounds.
Some key points about matcha:
- Originated in China during the Tang Dynasty and was brought to Japan in the 12th century
- Grown and produced mainly in Japan, especially in the Uji region
- The tea bushes are covered for 3-4 weeks before harvest to increase chlorophyll production, boosting the green color and nutrient content
- The leaves are picked by hand, the stems and veins are removed, and the leaves are stone-ground into a fine powder
- Powder is bright green and has a grassy, slightly bitter taste
- Packed with antioxidants like EGCG, shown in studies to reduce heart disease risk, improve brain function, and aid weight loss
- Contains L-theanine, an amino acid that induces calmness without drowsiness
- Provides caffeine for alertness and focus but less than coffee so less jittery
- Often used in traditional Japanese tea ceremonies
As you can see, matcha is really nutritious thanks to all the compounds from the whole leaf ending up in your cup! Adding protein powder can boost the health quotient even more.
Benefits of Adding Protein Powder
Stirring a scoop or two of protein powder into your matcha can provide these benefits:
- Extra protein: Plain matcha contains only about 1 gram of protein per cup. Adding 20+ grams from protein powder significantly bumps up this nutrient.
- Amino acids: Protein powders supply amino acids like leucine, isoleucine and valine to support muscle growth and recovery.
- Vitamins and minerals: Types like whey and plant proteins contain B vitamins, iron, calcium and more.
- Probiotics: Some plant-based options add gut-healthy probiotics.
- Fiber: Plant proteins from sources like peas, rice and hemp seed offer extra fiber.
- Antioxidants: Protein made from green veggies has antioxidant power.
- Thicker texture: Protein powder makes matcha creamier and frothier.
- Curb hunger: The extra protein can help satisfy hunger and prevent energy crashes.
- Muscle preservation: Higher protein intake helps maintain muscle mass when dieting.
- Slow digestion: Pairing protein with matcha’s caffeine provides sustained energy release.
The caffeine in matcha provides an immediate energizing effect while the protein offers sustained energy by slowing digestion. This makes matcha and protein powder a great pre-workout combo to power through your fitness routine or busy morning.
Best Types of Protein Powder to Use
You have lots of options when it comes to selecting a protein powder to blend into your matcha. Here are some top types to consider:
Whey Protein
Whey protein comes from dairy and contains all the amino acids needed for muscle repair and growth. It’s absorbed quickly and has about 20 grams of protein per scoop. Whey is one of the most popular types of protein powder due to its muscle-building abilities. It works great combined with matcha.
Look for whey isolate or hydrolysate for the highest protein content and least lactose. Unflavored or lightly flavored whey, like vanilla, pairs best with matcha.
Plant-Based Protein
Vegan protein powders are made from sources like peas, rice, hemp, soy, pumpkin seed and more. They contain around 20 grams of protein without any animal products. Plant-based varieties won’t give you all the amino acids that whey does, but they are excellent options for vegetarians/vegans.
Pea and rice proteins have the mildest flavors that complement matcha well. Look for unsweetened types without strong flavors added.
Collagen Protein
Collagen protein is made from animal bones/tissues or eggshell membranes. It provides about 10 grams of protein per scoop along with collagen, which supports skin, hair, nails, joints and muscles. Unflavored collagen blends smoothly into matcha for a combo that hydrates skin and eases joint pain.
Egg White Protein
Egg white protein isolates give you 18-25 grams of high-quality, lean protein per serving. Egg protein has all the amino acids needed for muscle maintenance and growth. It has a mild flavor and creamy texture that pairs well with matcha. Those sensitive to eggs should avoid this type.
Hemp Protein
Hemp protein is made from hemp seeds and packs 10-15 grams of plant-based protein per scoop. In addition to protein, hemp contains omega fatty acids that reduce inflammation. Hemp protein has a nutty, earthy flavor that enhances the natural taste of matcha.
Brown Rice Protein
Brown rice protein is vegan and hypoallergenic, making it a good choice for those with dairy, gluten or soy issues. It provides about 20 grams of protein along with nutrients like vitamin B, magnesium and phosphorus. Rice protein mixed into matcha makes for a nutrient-dense energy boost.
Steps for Mixing Protein Powder into Matcha
Adding protein powder to matcha is super easy to do – simply follow these steps:
1. Prepare Your Matcha
Start by making your matcha as normal, sifting 1-2 tsp of matcha powder into a cup or bowl. Add about 1/3 cup hot water (not boiling) and use a chasen whisk or small frother to mix until frothy.
You can adjust the ratio of powder to water depending on how strong you like your matcha. Some prefer a thinner tea while others like a thicker, more concentrated matcha.
2. Add Your Protein Powder
Next, add 1-2 scoops (20-40 grams) of your preferred protein powder to the matcha. Start with just 1 scoop at first to avoid overpowering the tea’s flavor.
3. Mix Well
Use your whisk or frother to combine the protein powder and matcha until fully incorporated with no clumps. The texture should become thicker, creamier and frothier.
4. Drink and Enjoy!
Drink your protein matcha right away while hot for maximum enjoyment. Be sure to stir or whisk again before sipping to recombine. Savor the smooth, rich flavor and texture!
You can adjust the amount of protein powder you add to suit your taste and nutrition needs. Some people also add a teaspoon of coconut oil, dash of cinnamon or splash of milk/non-dairy milk to amp up the flavor even more.
Tips for the Best Protein Matcha
Follow these tips for optimal results when adding protein to your matcha:
- Use high-quality matcha powder for best flavor – avoid cheap tea bags
- Choose unsweetened protein powders to let the natural matcha flavors shine
- Mix in hot but not boiling water so you don’t damage nutrients
- Fully dissolve powder clumps for a smooth sip
- Drink immediately before the foam settles
- Shake or stir again before finishing your cup
- Start with 1 scoop of protein and adjust up as desired
- Use plant-based protein for a vegan option
- Try different protein flavors like vanilla or chocolate
- Top with tasty mixins like cinnamon or nutmeg
Avoid over-whisking or excess hot water when preparing your matcha as this can make it taste bitter. With the right ratios and ingredients your protein matcha will be creamy, nutritious and delicious!
Pre-Blended Protein Matchas
If you don’t want the hassle of mixing powders yourself, there are ready-made matcha green tea powders infused with protein available. Brands like Vivo Life, Tropeaka and Kenko Tea make matcha blended with collagen, whey, brown rice protein and more.
Simply add hot water and whisk or shake up your pre-mixed protein matcha for an easy nutrient boost! Check the nutrition label as protein amounts vary. Powder mixes provide an convenient option for enjoying protein matcha on the go.
Matcha Protein Smoothie Recipes
Another way to enjoy matcha protein combinations is blended up in smoothies. Adding frozen fruit, yogurt, juice or milk allows you to mask any earthy flavors and make a creamy, sweet treat.
Here are some delicious and healthy matcha protein smoothie recipes to try:
Tropical Matcha Protein Smoothie
- 1 cup coconut water or milk of choice
- 1 frozen banana
- 1 cup frozen mango chunks
- 1 tsp matcha powder
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
- 1 tbsp almond butter
- Spinach, kale or microgreens (optional)
Blend all ingredients until smooth and creamy. The banana, mango and almond butter sweeten it naturally. Add greens for an antioxidant boost.
Mixed Berry Matcha Protein Smoothie
- 1 cup almond milk
- 1/2 cup frozen mixed berries
- 1 tsp matcha powder
- 1 scoop collagen peptides protein powder
- 1 tbsp ground flaxseed
- 1 tbsp Greek yogurt
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional)
Blend up for a fruit-filled smoothie with protein, healthy fats and fiber. Frozen berries give a thick, cold texture.
Matcha Avocado Protein Smoothie
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1 cup spinach
- 1 cup almond milk
- 1 tsp matcha powder
- 1 scoop brown rice protein powder
- 1 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1 tbsp honey or agave (optional)
The avocado gives creaminess while the spinach provides a nutrient boost. Cocoa powder adds an antioxidant-rich chocolate flavor.
Chai Spiced Matcha Protein Smoothie
- 1 banana
- 1 cup milk of choice
- 1 tsp matcha powder
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp cardamom
- 1/4 tsp ginger powder
- Pinch of black pepper and cloves
- Honey to taste (optional)
Blend all ingredients for a soothing, spiced smoothie. Adjust spice amounts to your preferences.
The options are endless when it comes to combining matcha with protein powder in smoothies. Get creative with your favorite ingredients and flavors.
Is It Safe to Consume Protein and Matcha Together?
Having protein powder with matcha is generally very safe and healthy for most people. However, there are a couple precautions to keep in mind:
- Caffeine sensitivity – Matcha contains around 35mg caffeine per half tsp powder. Consuming it with protein can prolong the effects of caffeine due to slower digestion. Limit matcha if you are caffeine-sensitive.
- Milk allergy – Many protein powders contain milk ingredients. Select a plant-based variety if you have a milk allergy.
- Food intolerances – Avoid proteins made from foods you are intolerant to, like soy or eggs.
- Lead content – Matcha can contain trace lead from soil. Drinking large amounts daily is not recommended, especially for pregnant women.
- Sugars and additives – Some flavored proteins have added sugar alcohols, preservatives and artificial sweeteners to limit.
Talk to your doctor before regularly consuming matcha protein drinks if you have any medical conditions or take prescription medications. Otherwise it is safe for most people and provides an antioxidant and amino acid-packed energy boost!
Matcha Protein FAQs
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about blending protein powder into matcha tea:
Why put protein powder in matcha?
Adding protein powder boosts the nutrition of matcha with extra amino acids, vitamins and minerals. The combo provides sustained energy, muscle support, and a creamy, frothy texture.
How much protein should I add to matcha?
A good starting point is 1 scoop or 20 grams protein. You can adjust up or down depending on your protein needs and flavor preferences.
When should I drink matcha protein drinks?
Matcha protein is great any time of day but works especially well pre-workout or as a breakfast replacement shake. The caffeine + protein combo provides a sustained energy boost to power you through exercise or your morning.
Does matcha go well with whey, plant and other proteins?
Matcha complements whey, plant proteins like pea and rice, egg white protein, hemp protein and collagen protein. Choose unflavored or lightly flavored varieties.
Is matcha protein good for weight loss?
Yes, matcha protein can help with fat loss! The EGCG in matcha boosts metabolism and the protein keeps you feeling fuller longer to curb cravings. But overall calorie intake still matters most for weight loss.
Can I use an electric frother or blender?
You can use an electric milk frother, immersion blender or countertop blender to mix matcha protein drinks. Just be careful not to over-blend matcha as high speed can make it taste bitter.
Conclusion
Protein powder is a fantastic addition to matcha that takes the health benefits and great taste up a notch. By following the tips provided, you can easily make protein matchas, smoothies and more.
Whey, plant, egg, collagen and other proteins all complement matcha well with their amino acids, texture and extra nutrients. Simply stir in a scoop of your favorite protein to enjoy the increased energy, muscle support, and creamy texture.
Drink your matcha protein beverage first thing in the morning, before or after a workout or any time your body and tastebuds crave an extra boost. Matcha protein combines the best of green tea and protein worlds!
