Blue Sapphire Matcha Bowl

Introduction: The matcha bowl is an integral part of the Chanoyu tea ceremony of Japan. Also known as Chawan, this bowl is hand made by skilled artisans in tokoname city, Japan. Each bowl is unique in form and the asymmetry of each bowl is designed to reflect the beauty in imperfection.

Preparing Matcha
A small amount of matcha is placed into the bowl, traditionally using a bamboo scoop called a chashaku, then a small amount of hot (not boiling) water is added. The mixture is then whisked to a uniform consistency, using a bamboo whisk known as a chasen. There must be no lumps left in the liquid, and no ground tea should remain on the sides of the bowl.

Usucha
Usucha, or thin tea, is prepared with half a teaspoon of matcha and approximately 75 ml (2.5 oz) of hot water, which can be whisked to produce froth or not, according to the drinker's preference (or to the traditions of the particular school of tea). Usucha creates a lighter and slightly more bitter tea.

Koicha
Koicha, or thick tea, requires significantly more matcha, as many as six teaspoons to 3/4 cup of water. Because the resulting mixture is significantly thicker, blending it requires a slower, stirring motion which does not produce foam. Koicha produces a sweeter tea, and is served almost exclusively as part of Japanese tea ceremonies.