Moringa powder makes a spicy matcha substitute
I was at the grocery store with my wife and kid, on the hunt for moon cakes—which apparently aren't a Chinese New Year thing.
We got some hopia instead, and other stuff, including a pouch of Moringa powder for an experiment I've always wanted to take on.
Will it matcha?
Since it's green (chlorophyll-rich), powdered, and smells earthy enough.
Maybe it will.
Quick answer: it does—for a bit. Then it becomes slightly spicy with a tangy aftertaste.
I prepped it with some fresh milk and sugar syrup. It looked just like matcha. It smelled just like matcha. It just tastes a little bit different. 🍵
I come from a place where real matcha isn't that readily available in grocery stores, and when it does show up, it costs an arm and a leg.
Moringa, on the other hand, is super abundant. There's practically 2 to 4 trees per block where I'm from.
Moringa doesn't have caffeine, but it packs a punch when it comes to micronutrients—so I'm all for that in my midnight work routine.
I'm writing this 30 minutes post drinking the whole thing, and I strangely feel boosted. More clear on what I want to jot down and what to do.
Focused. In flow.
Maybe I'm just excited for the next cup. ☕
Verdict: Workable, especially if you're fine with a spicy spike. Doesn't totally replace my favorite Matcha Oatmilk Sea Salt Latte order from a small artisanal matcha stall at the Sunday market.
Matsya. Look them up if you're ever around Dumaguete. 🌿
On that note, I should try adding salt on my next brew.