By Kinda Alhourani, Photos By Lars Jendruschewitz

As the vibrant spirit of spring breathes new life into the bustling streets of New York City, there’s no better way to celebrate the season’s arrival than with a refreshing beverage that captures its essence. Enter Cha Cha Matcha’s Strawberry Matcha drink- a delightful fusion of juicy strawberries and earthy matcha, perfectly encapsulating the energy and vibrancy of springtime in the city. But fear not if you can’t make it to Cha Cha Matcha’s iconic storefront; with a few simple steps, you can recreate this delectable drink from the comfort of your own home, bringing a taste of NYC’s spring to your fingertips. 

Before delving into the recipe, it is essential to understand what makes Cha Cha Matcha’s Strawberry Matcha drink beloved among New Yorkers. At its core, this beverage embodies the city’s dynamic spirit – bold, refreshing, and full of flavor. It is also caffeinated, which is important for New Yorkers who need their daily dose of caffeine to get through the day. The combination of fresh strawberries and premium matcha, which is powdered green tea, creates a harmonious blend of sweetness and earthiness, offering a revitalizing experience with every sip. Recreating this drink is not just about replicating its taste, but also about capturing the essence of New York City’s springtime allure. 

To embark on your culinary journey, gather the following ingredients: 

1) Matcha Powder: Look for high-quality matcha (preferably ceremonial grade matcha) to ensure a rich, authentic flavor.

2) Fresh Strawberries: Choose ripe, plump strawberries for maximum sweetness and juiciness.

3) Milk or Dairy-Free Alternatives: Oat milk is my personal favorite, but any milk or dairy alternative can be used for creaminess.

4) Sweetener: Opt for natural sweeteners like honey, agave syrup, or simple syrup to enhance the drink’s sweetness.

5) Ice: It is essential for keeping your beverage cool and refreshing.

6) Optional Garnish: Fresh strawberry slices or mint leaves can elevate the drink’s presentation.

Now that your ingredients are ready, let’s dive into the creation process!

Preparing The Ingredients: 

1) Wash the strawberries thoroughly, remove the stems, and slice them into quarters. Sift one to two teaspoons of matcha powder into a bowl to ensure a smooth consistency. 

2) Blend the strawberries. In a blender, combine the sliced strawberries with a tablespoon of your chosen sweetener. Blend until you achieve a smooth puree, adjusting the sweetness to your liking. 

3) Prepare the matcha. In a separate bowl, whisk the sifted matcha powder with a small amount of hot water (not boiling) until it forms a smooth paste. Gradually add the remaining hot water while whisking vigorously to create a frothy matcha mixture. 

Assembling The Drink:

4) Fill a glass with ice cubes, then pour in the strawberry puree until it fills about one-third of the glass. Slowly pour the prepared matcha over the strawberry puree, allowing the layers to form naturally.

5) Add milk. Top up the glass with your chosen milk or dairy-free alternative, leaving a little space at the top for garnish, if desired. Give the drink a gentle stir to combine all the flavors. 

6) For an extra touch of elegance, garnish your drink with fresh strawberry slices or a sprig of mint. Serve immediately and enjoy the vibrant flavors of spring!