kojikombumacha

the proposed beverage consists of:

A sealed cup with traditional matcha latte (8oz)
A "shooter" of specialized fermented kefir (containing koji-fermented green rice matcha) (alcoholic)
A gas station serving style where customers peel the lid, add ice, and pour in the shooter


Fermentation Science: Optimizing the Matcha Koji Process
The koji fermentation process described is scientifically fascinating and could create truly unique flavor compounds. Let me break down the optimal approach:

Step 1: Matcha-Rice Preparation
First, we need to create the ideal substrate for fermentation:

Use short-grain rice (higher starch content promotes better fermentation)
Cook rice with water infused with high-grade matcha (2% -10% concentration by weight)
Critical temperature control: Cook at precisely 98°C to preserve matcha's catechins and L-theanine while gelatinizing rice starches
Add a small amount (0.5%) of rice bran to provide additional nutrients for the koji mold
The rice should be cooked until firm but fully hydrated - approximately 85-90% gelatinization of starches. This provides the optimal texture for koji penetration while maintaining structural integrity during fermentation.

Step 2: Controlled Koji Fermentation
For optimal flavor development:

Cool the matcha rice to 35°C (95°F) - the ideal temperature for Aspergillus oryzae growth
Inoculate with a specific strain of Aspergillus oryzae that produces higher levels of amylase and protease enzymes
Maintain humidity at 75-80% in a carefully controlled environment
Allow fermentation to proceed for 36-48 hours, monitoring carefully

getting the flavor of the ingredients in this stage is crucial as waiting to long can produce off flavors

The matcha compounds interact with the koji enzymes to produce unique flavor precursors:
Amylases break down rice starches into simpler sugars
Proteases transform proteins into amino acids and peptides
The catechins and L-theanine in matcha undergo partial transformation, creating new flavor profile
Step 3: Secondary Fermentation with Kefir Culture
The next phase leverages the power of kefir's microbial diversity:

Create a "starter" by combining 10% of the koji-fermented matcha rice with fresh milk
Add active kefir grains with strong Lactobacillus and Saccharomyces populations as well as champagne yeast
Ferment at 24°C for 18-48 hours but up to 17 days al dente it is brewers choice - this specific temperature favors the development of fruity esters in this blend
Strain, rack, and blend, the fermented mixture to create a creamy emulsion

The chemical transformation is remarkable here. The lactic acid bacteria convert lactose into lactic acid, while yeasts produce ethanol and carbon dioxide. These processes, combined with the already-transformed matcha compounds, create:

Fruity esters (similar to those in sake)
Enhanced umami from free amino acids
Mildly acidic notes that brighten the overall flavor profile
A slight natural carbonation that adds textural interest
Step 4: Flavor Stabilization
To ensure consistent flavor and shelf stability:

Pasteurize at a low temperature (65°C for 30 minutes) to halt fermentation while preserving flavor compounds
Homogenize to create a stable emulsion that won't separate in the shooter
Add a small amount (0.2%) of natural emulsifier like sunflower lecithin and stir until homogenous

the drink should be 8 0z ice
8 oz macha latte sweetened with condensed milk
8 oz kojikombumacha

thanks for the read