Japanese Matcha Mojito Mocktail Recipe

Learn how to make the best homemade Japanese Matcha Mojito Mocktail with this easy alcohol-free recipe. This refreshing non-alcoholic drink combines premium matcha powder with muddled mint, lime, and sparkling water for a sophisticated virgin cocktail that's perfect for summer entertaining or mindful sipping.

Difficulty:

Intermediate

Prep Time:

10 mins

Cook Time:

Serves:

1 mocktail

Ingredients

<ul class="ingredients-main-list"> <li class="ingredients-single-item">2g premium matcha powder (culinary grade)</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">30ml hot water (80°C)</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">15-20 fresh mint leaves, plus extra for garnish</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">30ml fresh lime juice</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">20ml simple syrup</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">10ml honey (optional, for added sweetness)</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">150ml cold sparkling water</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">Crushed ice</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">1 lime wheel for garnish</li> </ul>

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🍽️ Serving Size:

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Equipment

<ul class="equipment-main-list"> <li class="equipment-single-item">Bamboo matcha whisk (chasen) or small wire whisk</li> <li class="equipment-single-item">Muddler</li> <li class="equipment-single-item">Highball glass</li> <li class="equipment-single-item">Cocktail shaker</li> <li class="equipment-single-item">Fine mesh strainer</li> <li class="equipment-single-item">Bar spoon</li> </ul>

Directions

<ol class="no-list-style"> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4> Prepare the matcha base by sifting 2g of matcha powder into a small bowl to remove any clumps. Pour 30ml of hot water (not boiling, ideally around 80°C) over the matcha and whisk vigorously in a zigzag motion until frothy and fully dissolved with no lumps. Set aside to cool slightly while you prepare the other elements. This careful preparation prevents the bitter notes that can emerge when matcha is improperly prepared. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4> In a cocktail shaker, gently muddle the mint leaves just until fragrant. Over-muddling will release bitter chlorophyll compounds, so press just enough to release the essential oils - you should smell the mint's aromatics immediately. Add the fresh lime juice and simple syrup (and honey if using), then fill the shaker halfway with ice. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4> Shake the mint-lime mixture vigorously for about 15 seconds until the outside of the shaker feels cold. The aeration process helps integrate the flavors while the ice dilutes the concentration slightly, achieving perfect balance. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4> Fill your highball glass with crushed ice to about three-quarters full. Crushed ice melts more quickly than cubes, creating a more refreshing and consistently cold drink while also helping to build beautiful layers. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4> Strain the mint-lime mixture through a fine mesh strainer into the glass. Pour slowly over the back of a bar spoon to create a gentle flow that won't disturb the ice too much. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4> Hold a bar spoon upside down against the inside of the glass and slowly pour the cooled matcha mixture over the back of the spoon. This layering technique creates a beautiful gradient effect in the glass. Don't worry if it mixes slightly - the flavor will be delicious regardless. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 7</h4> Top with sparkling water, again pouring gently over the back of a bar spoon to maintain layering as much as possible. The carbonation adds a lively mouthfeel and helps lift the matcha and mint aromas to your nose as you sip. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 8</h4> Garnish with a fresh sprig of mint (gently slap it between your hands first to release the aromatic oils) and a lime wheel perched on the rim of the glass. For an authentic Japanese touch, you can dust a small amount of matcha powder on top of the finished drink. Serve immediately while the drink is well-chilled and the bubbles are still vibrant. </li> </ol>

FAQs

Find answers to your most pressing questions about this delicious recipe right here.

What ingredients are used in Japanese Matcha Mojito Mocktail Recipe?

This vibrant mocktail combines premium matcha powder, fresh mint leaves, lime juice, simple syrup, sparkling water, and crushed ice. Optional additions include honey for extra sweetness and garnishes of mint sprigs and lime wheels for a sophisticated presentation.

How to make Japanese Matcha Mojito Mocktail Recipe at home?

Learn how to make Japanese Matcha Mojito Mocktail by whisking matcha with hot water until frothy, then muddling mint leaves with lime juice and simple syrup. Layer these components over crushed ice, top with sparkling water, and garnish with fresh mint and lime. The careful layering creates a beautiful gradient effect and balanced flavour profile.

What's the ideal matcha powder to use for mocktails?

For mocktails, use culinary-grade matcha that balances vibrant colour with smooth taste. Premium grades offer brighter green hues and less bitterness. Ceremonial grade is unnecessarily expensive for mixing, while lower-quality options may taste too bitter or muddy the drink's appearance.

How can I create perfect layers in my matcha mocktail?

Achieve beautiful layering by pouring ingredients slowly over the back of a bar spoon held against the inside of the glass. Ensure your matcha mixture has cooled slightly, add it after the mint-lime layer, and finally top with sparkling water using the same technique.

Can I prepare elements of this matcha mocktail in advance?

Yes! Pre-make the mint-lime mixture and store refrigerated for up to 8 hours. The matcha should be whisked fresh, but you can prepare it 30 minutes ahead. Assemble just before serving to maintain the dramatic layered effect and effervescence from the sparkling water.

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