Technically matcha can be prepared without using a whisk, but the end result might not be as smooth and creamy as it should be. To achieve the perfect consistency of matcha, using a matcha whisk–called a chasen in Japanese–is essential. Since matcha is finely ground green tea, using the proper tools during preparation will keep it from clumping or feeling gritty. Texture is everything when it comes to matcha!
What Is A Chasen?
The chasen is a tool with an open-end that sits flat against the bottom of the matcha bowl, so it won’t look like your average kitchen whisk. The long, thin prongs rapidly combine the powder and liquid, while aerating it, releasing its rich aroma and creating a delicate froth. The more prongs a matcha whisk has the more it will aerate the matcha.
Chasen have been used in matcha preparation in Japan for hundreds of years with each whisk carved from a single piece of bamboo. The bamboo chasen sold today, like ours, are still produced in the same tradition by families who have crafted them for many generations. Tea is a form of art and ceremony in Japanese culture and the craftsmanship of accessories used for tea preparation is no exception. Rare chasen can be collected for nearly $300 a piece!
Taking Care Of Your Matcha Whisk
Bamboo chasen are delicate tools. With a bit of mindfulness, a traditional matcha whisk can last up to a couple years before it needs replacing. Before you use the chasen for the first time, it’s important to allow the prongs to soak in hot water for a minute or two. This will prime the whisk and prevent any cracking.
Cleaning & Care Tips
- After you are done preparing your matcha, simply rinse the tea off the whisk with warm water. Soap is not necessary, but delicate hand washing is okay!
- Allow the whisk to dry completely before storing. Air drying is best, as to not disturb the prongs.
- When not in use, store the whisk with the prongs facing down, preferably using a traditional chasen holder, which helps maintain the unique shape of the whisk.
- While whisking, avoid pushing too firmly into the base of your matcha bowl to keep the whisk from warping.
Modern Chasen
Chasen also come in dishwasher safe materials! Using premium Japanese plastic that is heat-safe and commonly used in household and baby products, modern chasen deliver on both technique and practicality. Our dishwasher-safe matcha whisks are just as effective at producing a rich, frothy cup of matcha.
Explore our Matcha Set which has everything you need for the perfect at-home matcha experience: a bamboo whisk, a ceramic holder, and a tin of matcha. From Uji, Kyoto, our True Daily Matcha is a ceremonial grade tea made from first flush green tea leaves–making it robust in flavor and rich with antioxidants.
