Elevate Your Dessert Game with Matcha Affagato: A Charming Fusion of Flavors

Are you a dessert enthusiast with an adventurous palate? If so, you're in for a treat! We're here to introduce you to the world of matcha affagato, a charming and captivating dessert that's taking the culinary scene by storm. This exquisite fusion of traditional Italian affagato and vibrant Japanese matcha creates a symphony of flavors and textures that's sure to leave your taste buds dancing.

We have teamed up with Tea Lab Company to create this incredibly delicious dessert Tea Lab are an independent British brand founded by identical twin designers, Anna, Katie and Julie, an experienced scientist. The entrepreneurial sisters shared a fun and adventurous upbringing on the islands of Hawaii and Barbados. These cultural experiences made us open to new flavours, ideas and experimentation and gave us the inspiration for the names of many of our teas.

When you buy organically certified teas or herbal infusions, you can be assured it is free of fertilisers, pesticides and herbicides, which is better for people and the planet. Tea Lab's organic tea is traceable from the farm to the cup because it is inspected and certified at each stage of its journey, giving you the peace of mind in the integrity of the product. Tea Lab only sells English Breakfast as Organically Certified as we believe it should be organic because this product is consumed so often. Tea Lab are Organically Certified with OFF (Organic Food Federation).

The founders of Tea Lab are also very conscious of environmental factors. With packaging that has been carefully designed for functionality, added value and sustainability. Sustainability is integral to the Tea Lab brand, with an ongoing commitment to their environmental responsibility. The amber glass jars are 100% recyclable. Tea Lab jars can be refilled with loose leaf teas and have the added value of their design aesthetics. They can be kept on a kitchen counter top, or display area as the amber glass protects the tea from UV light. Using mailing boxes made from recycled paper and filled with natural crinkle Eco-paper which is made from 100% recycled material and is 100% recyclable.

The Tea Lab also support the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, which provides health care and safety to orphaned elephants in Kenya. 10% of proceeds from Tea Lab's Rooibos and Honeybush teas go to the Sheldrick Wildflife Trust.

The Perfect Marriage of East and West

Affagato, an Italian dessert, translates to "drowned" in English. It's a simple yet indulgent concoction featuring a scoop of velvety gelato or ice cream "drowned" in a shot of hot espresso. This juxtaposition of hot and cold, bitter and sweet, has been a beloved dessert for years. Enter matcha, a finely ground green tea powder that has been a staple in Japanese tea ceremonies for centuries. Its earthy, slightly bitter taste profile is the ideal counterpart to the sweet creaminess of ice cream.

A Symphony of Flavors

Imagine this: a rich, creamy scoop of vanilla ice cream, artfully placed in a bowl or glass. A shot of hot, intense espresso is then poured over it, creating a captivating dance of temperature and taste. But what happens when you replace espresso with matcha? The magic unfolds. The bitterness of the matcha is mellowed by the sweet ice cream, resulting in a harmonious balance that tantalizes the senses. The vibrant green hue of matcha against the pale creaminess of the ice cream is a visual treat in itself, amking this a stunning alternative to the classic affagato.

Sensory Bliss

Eating is not just about taste; it's a sensory experience. Matcha affagato delights not only the taste buds but also the eyes and nose. The aroma of freshly brewed matcha infuses the air as you take a moment to savor the visual masterpiece before you. The first spoonful is an adventure – your palate is greeted with the initial sweetness of the ice cream, followed by the gentle bitterness of matcha, and all the while, your senses are wrapped in the warm embrace of the steam rising from the dessert.

A Charming Option for the Health-Conscious

Matcha affagato isn't just a treat for your taste buds; it also brings a touch of healthfulness. Matcha is renowned for its high concentration of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. It contains a special type of caffeine called theophylline that provides a gentler energy boost without the jitters often associated with coffee. Additionally, matcha is believed to have a calming effect, which can enhance the overall dessert experience.

Here are some of the key benefits of matcha:

1. Abundance of Antioxidants: Matcha is packed with powerful antioxidants, especially catechins, particularly epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). These antioxidants help combat free radicals in the body, reducing oxidative stress and lowering the risk of chronic diseases.

2. Boosts Cognitive Function: The combination of caffeine and L-theanine in matcha provides a balanced energy boost without the jitters often associated with coffee. L-theanine promotes relaxation and helps improve focus, attention, and mental clarity.

3. Calming Effect: L-theanine, an amino acid found in matcha, induces relaxation without drowsiness. It can help reduce stress, anxiety, and even improve mood by increasing the production of serotonin and dopamine.

4. Enhances Metabolism: Matcha has been suggested to increase metabolic rate and aid in weight management. The combination of caffeine and EGCG supports thermogenesis, the process by which the body burns calories for energy.

5. Supports Heart Health: Regular consumption of matcha has been linked to improved heart health. Its antioxidants may help reduce LDL cholesterol levels, improve blood pressure, and decrease the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

6. Detoxification: Chlorophyll, responsible for matcha's vibrant green color, has been shown to aid in detoxification by helping eliminate heavy metals and harmful chemicals from the body.

7. Regulation of Blood Sugar: Matcha consumption may help stabilize blood sugar levels due to its high fiber content and the presence of certain compounds that improve insulin sensitivity.

8. Skin Benefits: The antioxidants in matcha contribute to healthy, radiant skin by protecting against UV damage, reducing inflammation, and promoting skin cell regeneration.

9. Nutrient-Rich: Matcha is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, and iron. These nutrients support overall health and well-being.

10. Immune System Support: The various vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants found in matcha can help strengthen the immune system, promoting the body's defense against infections and illnesses.

11. Gut Health: Matcha contains dietary fiber that can aid digestion and promote a healthy gut environment by supporting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria.

12. Dental Health: Some studies suggest that the catechins in matcha possess antimicrobial properties that may help prevent the growth of harmful bacteria in the mouth, leading to improved oral health.

13. Long-Lasting Energy: Matcha provides a sustained release of energy due to the combination of caffeine and L-theanine. This can help you stay focused and energized throughout the day.

14. Cancer Prevention: While more research is needed, the high content of antioxidants, particularly EGCG, has shown potential in inhibiting the growth of cancer cells and reducing the risk of certain types of cancer.

15. Alkalizing Effect: Matcha has an alkalizing effect on the body, which can help balance pH levels and promote overall wellness.

Incorporating matcha into your diet can offer an array of health benefits, from promoting relaxation and focus to supporting heart health and metabolism. However, it's important to remember that like any dietary supplement, moderation is key. If you have specific health concerns or conditions, it's recommended to consult a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your diet. 

Matcha affagato is more than just a dessert; it's an experience. This creative fusion of flavors and cultures has created a unique and captivating treat that's sure to leave a lasting impression. Whether you're seeking a moment of indulgence, a delightful sensory journey, or a healthier dessert option, matcha affagato has it all. So, the next time you're on the hunt for an extraordinary dessert, consider treating yourself to the enchanting world of matcha affagato. Your taste buds will thank you!

Enjoy,
The Steens team x




INGREDIENTS

2 tsp Matcha powder
2 scoops vanilla ice cream
90 ml water (hot)
Drizzle of Manuka honey



Add matcha powder to a small bowl. Pour the hot water into the bowl and wisk at the same time. To get a nice and frothy matcha, mix back and forth rather than in circles. 



Scoop the vanilla ice cream into serving glasses. Pour matcha over the ice cream. 
Top with a drizzle of Manuka honey.



Serve immediately and enjoy! x