Is This Chef Responsible For A Nationwide Trend With Her 'Matcha Biryani'

Culinary experiments often get attention, but sometimes they strike a nerve. Recently, chef and culinary artist Heena Kausar Raad posted a video demonstrating what she called “matcha biryani,” and the internet had strong feelings about it.

In the clip, Heena stands before a massive vessel brimming with bright green rice. She explains that the unusual hue comes from matcha, a powdered green tea traditionally used in Japanese cuisine. For many viewers, the sight of the familiar rice dish transformed into something that resembled neon-hued spinach stirred discomfort.

The comments quickly filled with reactions ranging from mild amusement to disapproval. Many said they appreciated innovation but felt matcha simply did not belong in biryani. Some joked it looked like “rice dipped in poster paint,” while others worried it would put off even adventurous eaters.

Though Heena's innovation disappointed Indians at levels unknown, it sure did spark another conversation-what is Matcha and what's so special about it?

What is Matcha tea?

For those unfamiliar, matcha is a finely ground powder made from specially grown and processed green tea leaves. Unlike regular green tea, where leaves are steeped and removed, matcha powder is whisked into water or milk and consumed whole. This makes it more concentrated in flavor, nutrients, and caffeine.

How is Matcha made?

Matcha production is meticulous. Farmers shade the tea plants for about three weeks before harvest to increase chlorophyll levels, which gives the leaves their bright green color. After picking, the leaves are steamed, dried, and stone-ground into a fine powder. High-quality matcha has a vivid hue and a smooth, slightly sweet, grassy taste.

Health benefits of matcha

Despite its controversial use in biryani, matcha is highly valued for its many health benefits. It contains abundant antioxidants, especially EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate), which may help protect cells from damage, reduce inflammation, and support overall immune health.

Drinking matcha regularly has been linked to improved brain function, better concentration, and sustained energy thanks to its unique combination of caffeine and L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes relaxation without causing drowsiness.

Matcha is also known to boost metabolism, potentially aiding in weight management when paired with a healthy diet and exercise. Some studies suggest it can help lower 'bad' LDL cholesterol and improve heart health over time. Because you consume the entire powdered leaf rather than just brewed liquid, matcha offers a more potent dose of vitamins, minerals, and beneficial plant compounds than ordinary green tea.