Unveiling the World of Matcha: Finding Matcha with Nemo
"I knew matcha would be hard to sell, but still, no one was really doing it." In the heart of Male', the capital of the Maldives, a unique home business has quietly stirred up a matcha revolution. Meet Finding Matcha by Nemo, a venture that began its journey as "Finding Brownies by Nemo." Nemo, whose nickname inspired the brand's original name, shares a captivating story of transformation from brownies to a matcha wonderland.
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Diverse Beginnings
Started on a whim to make ends meet, Finding Matcha by Nemo began with a singular focus on Matcha Brownies. Nemo's passion for matcha and the absence of similar offerings prompted the initial foray into matcha-based creations.
The journey, however, took an unexpected turn within a month, guided by the influence of Japanese matcha cafes on social media.
From Brownies to Matcha Magic
The decision to shift focus entirely to matcha creations was a strategic move to introduce more people to the unique flavor profile of matcha. "Anything matcha is doable," Nemo asserts. This vision propelled the exploration of incorporating matcha into common desserts, aiming to make this vibrant green tea more accessible to a broader audience.
Quality Assurance from Kyoto, Japan
Ensuring the highest quality, Finding Matcha by Nemo sources its matcha directly from a small family-owned tea farm in Kyoto, Japan. Since August 2022, Nemo has been using the farm's patisserie-grade matcha for desserts and selling the latte-grade variant. The distinct grades ensure a premium experience, with color and aroma serving as visible indicators of the matcha's quality.
Consistency in Craft
Navigating the challenge of consistency, Nemo adopts a meticulous approach. All recipes are measured in grams and milliliters, emphasizing precision in every creation. This commitment to consistency echoes through the entire menu, creating a harmonious experience for customers.
Innovation: Matcha Tres Leches
The creation of the Matcha Tres Leches reflects Nemo's drive for innovation. Balancing the distinct bitterness of matcha with the sweetness of tres leches, this unique blend has garnered attention and positive responses. Nemo acknowledges the need for adjustments, ensuring a harmonious marriage of flavors.
Challenges and Opportunities in the Maldives
Operating in the Maldives presents both challenges and opportunities. Nemo notes the relative ease compared to pre-pandemic times, highlighting the importance of addressing legal requirements for small businesses. Advocating for changes in import laws and GST registration, Nemo envisions a more supportive environment for small businesses.
Future Plans: A Taste of Maldivian Matcha Delights
While no solid plans are in place, Nemo expresses the desire to incorporate matcha into Maldivian desserts. Ideas are brewing, reflecting the brand's commitment to continuous innovation and expanding the matcha experience.
For those new to matcha, the Matcha Brownies offer a sweeter introduction. However, the connoisseur's choice is the Lava Cake—an intense matcha experience that truly brings out the essence of matcha. With each creation, Nemo invites customers to discover and appreciate the artistry of matcha in the heart of the Maldives.
