Starbucks kicked off the new year by introducing a new technique for preparing its infamous matcha beverages. Matcha lovers were quick to try and review their new matcha blend, which now allows customers to control the sweetness of their drink. With the fortunate shift of people caring and paying closer attention to their sugar consumption, “Matcha Your Way” has become a slogan that has appealed to many.
This idea of unsweetened matcha is supposed to be in favor of fans who desire a more traditional and real green tea flavor, as well as those who avoid Starbucks drinks because of the excessive sugar in their drinks. This new matcha powder is healthier, as it does not contain the added sugar and milk like the original Starbucks drink.
Even with the intention of serving more traditional matcha, Starbucks disappointed loyal customers by using a blender as the method to mix the matcha, rather than the traditional chasen (bamboo whisk). The chasen is needed to create a smooth, almost velvety drink, while a blender adds foam. In the past, Starbucks used its classic shaking technique, which often left little clumps. That said, shaken drinks may arguably still be a preferred method to the blender.
The authentic matcha that a consumer would get when they arrive in Japan has hints of nuttiness and bittersweetness, which also tastes floral. Tea and coffee enthusiasts making their own drinks at home often try to mimic this flavor by changing the amount of water put into the powder and adding different sweeteners, to still keep its authenticity.
With the emerging influence of social media on people’s opinions, TikTok has played a great role in spreading this news to consumers. When searching “Starbucks’ new matcha” on the app, a variety of opinions pop up on the screen. Whether it’s people trying to find a new way to have their matcha prepared or struggling to find the perfect order, fans are uncertain what to expect from this change.
“After months, I became convinced that adding matcha to my lifestyle would be a better replacement for coffee. Many people suggested that I try Starbucks since their matcha doesn’t have as intense a taste as most coffee shops. I had a great order that I would get almost daily, so it is disappointing to have to find a new order to meet my desire,” junior Lara Hanneyan said. This change has brought an unpredictable side to Starbucks, which regular customers would not want to deal with. The old powder and technique brought consistency that is necessary when craving a quick “pick-me-up” like a matcha latte.
Unlike most Starbucks drinks that require expensive espresso machines, creating a matcha latte at home is actually very easy to do. With a few tools and ingredients, people can not only save money but can get the actual drink they desire. Perhaps the way to achieve a “Matcha Your Way” drink is to “make it your way” at home.
