Sea Salt Iced Matcha – Standard Operating Procedure

Sea Salt Iced Matcha

Standard Operating Procedure

Ingredients

Base Ingredients (per serving):

  • 2g premium ceremonial grade matcha powder
  • 30ml hot water (75-80°C)
  • 200ml cold milk (dairy or alternative: oat, almond, soya)
  • Ice cubes (approximately 150g)
  • 10ml simple syrup (optional, adjust to customer preference)

Sea Salt Cream Topping:

  • 100ml double cream
  • 50ml whole milk
  • 1/4 teaspoon sea salt flakes
  • 5ml simple syrup

Equipment Required

  • Matcha whisk (chasen) or electric milk frother
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Hand mixer or whisk for cream topping
  • Measuring spoons and jug
  • 16oz clear glass or cup
  • Strainer (fine mesh)
  • Spoon for layering

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Prepare Sea Salt Cream (Can be made in batches)

  1. Combine double cream, whole milk, sea salt flakes, and simple syrup in a mixing bowl
  2. Whisk or use hand mixer on medium speed until soft peaks form (approximately 2-3 minutes)
  3. The consistency should be thick but pourable, similar to softly whipped cream
  4. Store in refrigerator if preparing in advance (use within 4 hours)

Step 2: Prepare Matcha Base

  1. Sift 2g matcha powder into a small bowl to remove any clumps
  2. Add 30ml hot water (75-80°C, not boiling)
  3. Whisk vigorously in a W or M motion for 15-20 seconds until smooth and slightly frothy
  4. No lumps should remain; the mixture should be vibrant green

Step 3: Assemble the Drink

  1. Fill the 16oz glass with ice cubes to approximately 3/4 full
  2. Pour 200ml cold milk over the ice
  3. Add simple syrup if customer requests sweetness (stir gently)
  4. Slowly pour the whisked matcha over the milk, allowing it to cascade through the ice
  5. Do not stir – the layered effect is part of the presentation

Step 4: Add Sea Salt Cream Topping

  1. Using a spoon, gently layer approximately 2-3 tablespoons of sea salt cream on top
  2. The cream should float on the surface, creating a distinct layer
  3. Optionally garnish with a small pinch of sea salt flakes on top

Step 5: Serve

  1. Insert a straw alongside the glass
  2. Serve immediately to maintain temperature and presentation
  3. Advise customer to stir before drinking or sip through the layers for varied taste experience

Quality Control Standards

Visual Appearance:

  • Vibrant green matcha layer visible through the glass
  • Clear separation between milk base and matcha
  • White sea salt cream floating distinctly on top
  • No clumps or powder residue visible

Taste Profile:

  • Earthy, slightly bitter matcha balanced with creamy milk
  • Subtle sweetness (if syrup added)
  • Savory sea salt cream provides contrast
  • Smooth texture with no grittiness

Temperature:

  • Served cold (4-8°C)
  • Ice should not be melting excessively upon service

Consistency:

  • Matcha should be smooth and fully dissolved
  • Sea salt cream should be thick enough to float but not stiff
  • Milk base should be cold and refreshing

Staff Notes

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Using boiling water – this burns the matcha and creates bitterness
  • Not sifting matcha powder – results in lumps
  • Over-whipping sea salt cream – becomes too stiff and won’t layer properly
  • Stirring the drink after assembly – ruins the visual presentation
  • Using too much sea salt – overpowers the delicate matcha flavor

Customer Customization Options:

  • Milk alternatives: Oat milk (recommended), almond, soya, coconut
  • Sweetness level: No syrup, light (5ml), regular (10ml), extra (15ml)
  • Extra matcha shot: Add 1g additional matcha for stronger flavor (+£0.50)
  • Less ice: Some customers prefer more liquid, less ice
  • No sea salt cream: Can be served as standard iced matcha latte

Allergen Information:

  • Contains: Dairy (milk, cream)
  • May contain: Soya, nuts (depending on milk alternative chosen)
  • Vegan option: Use plant-based cream alternative and non-dairy milk

Shelf Life & Storage:

  • Matcha powder: Store in airtight container, cool dark place, use within 3 months of opening
  • Sea salt cream: Prepare fresh daily, use within 4 hours, keep refrigerated
  • Drink must be served immediately after preparation

Approximate Preparation Time:

  • 2-3 minutes per drink (excluding sea salt cream batch preparation)

Cost & Pricing Guidance:

  • Ingredient cost: approximately £1.20-£1.50 per serving
  • Suggested retail price: £4.50-£5.50

Health & Safety

  • Ensure all equipment is clean and sanitized before use
  • Wash hands thoroughly before preparation
  • Check milk and cream expiration dates
  • Maintain cold chain for dairy products
  • Wipe down work surface after preparation
  • Handle hot water with care to avoid burns

Training Checklist

Staff member has demonstrated competency in:

  • Sifting and whisking matcha to smooth consistency
  • Preparing sea salt cream to correct texture
  • Layering drink components for visual appeal
  • Understanding customization options
  • Communicating allergen information to customers
  • Maintaining quality control standards

Trainer Name: _______________________

Staff Name: _______________________

Date: _______________________

Signature: _______________________

Sea Salt Iced Matcha SOP | Little Coffee Bean Co