After learning about the many potential benefits of chaga, which range from immune-boosting effects and antiviral properties to DNA damage protection, I wanted to introduce some variety and make drinking the earthy mushroom tea more fun. Who doesn’t want a little bit more fun?
Enter chocolate and, yes, matcha. Try not to judge the combination. Lately, I keep both cocoa powder and matcha powder well-stocked for all my craving needs. This chocolate chaga matcha latte experiment did not disappoint.
I used Four Sigmatic’s Chaga Elixer, which comes in powder form.
In addition to cocoa and matcha powders, you’ll need vegan milk of choice (I used soy), a vegan whipped cream of choice (such as Rice Whip or coconut cream), a frozen banana, and you might like to have a bamboo matcha whisk, but any whisk will do.
Variation 1: The Not-So-Basic Matcha Latte
While my teapot was heating on the stove, I sifted a serving of chaga, with a teaspoon each of chocolate and matcha, into a mug. Sifting helps prevent lumps in your tea. Lifehack: I used a tea strainer to sift, but, unlike me, you may have a sifter on hand.
Then I poured a few ounces of hot water into the mug, just enough to incorporate the powder with the whisk. Pro tip: it’s best to move the whisk in a zigzag, rather than circular, motion.
When the mixture is a smooth, dark liquid, you may pour steamed vegan milk of your choice (adjust the amount to your liking). Feel free to add vanilla extract and/or sweetener of choice at this point, too.
Variation 2: The Feeling-Extra Latte With Whimsical Whipped Cream
I happened to have some leftover Rice Whip in the fridge and dispensed a generous amount of the whipped cream on top! If you’re looking for a less processed option, try scooping out the cream from a chilled can of coconut milk. Personally, I always keep a couple of cans in my fridge for just such an occasion.
Variation 3: The Cool and Creamy Smoothie
If it’s hot out, or you’re just in the mood for a thick shake and extra sweetness, pour the above into a blender with a frozen banana. Feel free to add other fruit, if you like. It’s your drink, after all.
Have you tried chaga? Would you try it with chocolate in a matcha latte?
Also by Estella: Vegan Matcha Mini Bundt Cakes With Sweet Matcha Glaze
Related: Vegan Almond Earl Grey Latte (No Fancy Tools Required)
Vegan Latte Recipes: Vanilla Rose Latte
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Photos: Four Sigmatic, Estella Ramirez
