Matchi

Matchi is a Japanese term that combines the words "match" and "matcha," referring to a modern, Instagram-friendly adaptation of traditional matcha green tea. Originating in the early 2010s, Matchi gained popularity as a visually appealing, vibrant green powder that is often used in aesthetic food and drink trends. Unlike traditional matcha, which is typically consumed in its pure form or as a latte, Matchi is frequently used as a vibrant green garnish, food coloring, or ingredient in trendy desserts and cocktails.

The powder is made from high-quality, shade-grown green tea leaves, similar to traditional matcha, but it is often processed to achieve a brighter, more uniform green color, making it visually striking when used in photography. Matchi is commonly found in cafés, bakeries, and food blogs, where it is used to create visually appealing dishes such as Matcha-flavored macarons, cupcakes, and cocktails like the "Matcha Martini." It is also used in matcha-infused ice cream, mochi, and even savory dishes like matcha butter or matcha-infused ramen.

While Matchi shares similarities with traditional matcha, it is not always the same product. Some versions may contain additional ingredients like food coloring to enhance its vibrant hue, though high-quality Matchi is made purely from matcha powder. The trend reflects broader cultural influences, where Japanese aesthetics and flavors are integrated into global food and beverage trends, appealing to consumers who value both taste and visual presentation.