A drink that tastes like breakfast but works as a cool evening companion: matcha gives earthy depth, oat milk ensures a velvety texture, and the banana brings natural sweetness. Chia seeds bind the whole thing into a dense, nutrient-rich shake. Perfect for anyone who wants flavor without a sugar rush – and still something to chew on in the glass.
And this is what you need for the Affe und Pferd Hafermilch
200 ml oat milk (unsweetened, barista version for more foam)
1 ripe banana (approx. 120 g, the browner the peel, the sweeter the fruit)
1 level tsp chia seeds (approx. 3 g, pre-soak in 2 tbsp water for 5 minutes)
½ tsp matcha powder (approx. 1 g, high-quality, not the cheap kitchen stuff – otherwise it tastes like spinach)
1 pinch of sea salt (stirred in, enhances the banana’s sweetness)
Optional: 1 splash of lemon juice (neutralizes the earthy note of the matcha)
What matters
Add matcha powder directly to the oat milk, do not mix it with water first. The fats in the oat milk envelop the matcha’s bitter compounds and soften them – the result is smoother without needing sweeteners. If you want it greener, you can mix in ¼ tsp spirulina powder, but be careful: it can quickly taste like pond water. And: always peel the banana just before blending, otherwise it oxidizes and tastes mealy.
Variations
- Affe und Pferd with espresso — Replace 50 ml oat milk with a double espresso (approx. 60 ml). The coffee underscores the earthy matcha note and gives the drink a slight bitterness. Perfect for the afternoon – but not too late, otherwise you’ll be awake like a horse.
- Affe und Pferd with cocoa — Add ½ tsp unsweetened cocoa powder with the matcha to the oat milk. The banana harmonizes with the cocoa, and the texture becomes even creamier. For chocolate lovers who don’t want to drown their coffee in sugar.
- Affe und Pferd with ginger — Peel and finely grate 1 cm of fresh ginger, then blend with the banana. The ginger adds a sharp freshness that balances the sweet banana flavor. Not for sensitive stomachs – but if you like it, you can also use ½ tsp ginger syrup.
Frequently asked questions
Can I leave out the chia seeds?
Yes, but then the gel-like texture that makes the drink satisfying will be missing. Alternatively, you can use 1 tsp flaxseeds or ½ tsp xanthan as a binding agent – but chia is available in every organic store and tastes neutral.
Why does my matcha taste bitter?
Either you used too much powder (½ tsp is enough!) or too hot liquid. Matcha burns above 80°C and becomes bitter. Always mix with cold or at most lukewarm oat milk.
Can I use frozen banana?
Yes, but then the shake will be ice-cold and must be drunk immediately. Frozen banana adds more volume, so use only ½ banana or add 50 ml more oat milk.
How long does the drink keep in the fridge?
Maximum 4 hours. The chia seeds continue to swell and turn the shake gelatinous. Better to mix it fresh – it only takes 5 minutes.
