1 00:00:00,120 --> 00:00:01,410 Why does matcha clump? 2 00:00:01,410 --> 00:00:05,235 Those little green lumps aren't automatically a sign of bad tea. 3 00:00:05,235 --> 00:00:07,235 Matcha is a very fine powder, 4 00:00:07,235 --> 00:00:10,410 and its particles naturally gather together over time. 5 00:00:10,410 --> 00:00:12,260 Moisture and the powder's own weight 6 00:00:12,260 --> 00:00:15,710 can help those tiny particles stick together in the tin. 7 00:00:15,710 --> 00:00:18,160 Let's follow one spoonful into the bowl. 8 00:00:18,160 --> 00:00:21,410 First, sift the dry powder through a fine mesh. 9 00:00:21,410 --> 00:00:22,810 The clumps break apart, 10 00:00:22,810 --> 00:00:25,460 and a softer little pile falls underneath. 11 00:00:25,460 --> 00:00:28,285 This gives the whisk an easier starting point. 12 00:00:28,285 --> 00:00:31,585 Now add a small amount of your prepared warm water. 13 00:00:31,585 --> 00:00:33,310 Gently mix the powder and water 14 00:00:33,310 --> 00:00:35,510 until the visible lumps are worked out. 15 00:00:35,510 --> 00:00:37,075 Then add the rest of the water, 16 00:00:37,075 --> 00:00:39,050 and whisk back and forth. 17 00:00:39,050 --> 00:00:41,575 The same powder is now spread through the bowl, 18 00:00:41,575 --> 00:00:43,825 instead of sitting in little pockets. 19 00:00:43,825 --> 00:00:47,300 Follow your tea's directions for quantities and temperature. 20 00:00:47,300 --> 00:00:49,225 The useful habit is simple: 21 00:00:49,225 --> 00:00:51,075 break up the dry clumps first, 22 00:00:51,075 --> 00:00:53,715 then mix them evenly into your matcha.