I tried replacing coffee with matcha, and it might be my new morning ritual. From its humble origins rooted in a deep passion for tea to its impact on the modern matcha experience, I have the Cuzen Matcha Maker Kit to thank for this shift.

Recognizing the growing interest in matcha among consumers seeking a healthier alternative to coffee, founders Eijiro Tsukada and Oki Hatta envisioned a device that could effortlessly grind and whisk matcha to perfection, replicating the meticulous process traditionally reserved for tea ceremonies. Through engineering and collaboration with Silicon Valley experts, they succeeded in creating a machine that combines the precision of a ceramic mill with the elegance of a magnetic whisk, all at the push of a button.

It’s clear the Cuzen Matcha Maker stands out with its modern, sleek design that is visually appealing and meant to be displayed. Inspired by the tranquility of Japanese tea rooms, it evokes a sense of zen, inviting users to savor not just the taste of matcha but also the serenity of the tea-making ritual.

Plus, using the Cuzen Matcha Maker is remarkably simple. You just add the Cuzen branded matcha leaves to the mill, water to the cup, select your desired strength and hit start. The machine then automatically grinds the fresh powder into the cup and mixes it with the water using a stirring mechanism. Once it beeps to signal it’s ready, you can drink the freshly-made matcha beverage as-is or combine it with milk (which is my favorite way to sip).

Central to the Cuzen Matcha success is its dedication to sourcing organic tea leaves. Through research and collaboration with tea producers, Tsukada and his team discovered a farm in Japan that defied conventions by producing rich, flavorful matcha through organic farming practices. While I appreciate how this invites one to savor not just the flavor but also the journey that brought the quality matcha to one’s home, it’s important to note that using other matcha brands or types of leaves could potentially damage the ceramic mill and void the warranty. As such, the machine really requires committing to Cuzen’s product line.

I haven’t completely abandoned my daily coffee habit, but through this testing process I’ve started to really appreciate the health benefits of matcha because of its rich antioxidant profile — not to mention its pleasant umami flavor.

At around $300 for the starter kit (with samples) plus the ongoing cost of leaf purchases, the Cuzen Maker carries a significant investment, especially considering its one-year warranty. As a budget-minded matcha fan, I could opt for a basic electric frother and pre-ground powder like I used to and be satisfied. But now with the Cuzen Maker in my hands, I’ll continue to enjoy the luxurious indulgence.