Make the strawberry syrup: In a small saucepan, combine the strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Place over medium heat and stir occasionally. After about 4–5 minutes, you’ll notice the strawberries soften and release their juices — the mixture will turn a deep ruby red and the berries will break down into a chunky jam-like consistency. Remove from heat and let it cool for 2 minutes.

Strain the syrup: Pour the cooked strawberry mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl, pressing down with the back of a spoon to extract all the liquid. You’ll be left with a smooth, glossy, bright pink syrup. Discard the solids (or save them for yoghurt!). Let the syrup cool to room temperature.

Prepare the matcha: Sift the matcha powder into a small bowl to eliminate any lumps. Add the hot water (around 80°C — it should steam but not bubble). Using a bamboo whisk or a small regular whisk, whisk in a zigzag motion until the matcha is fully dissolved and you see a frothy, vibrant green layer with tiny bubbles on the surface. The aroma should be grassy and slightly sweet.

Assemble the base: Pour 2–3 tablespoons of the strawberry syrup into the bottom of your serving glass. If making an iced latte, fill the glass with ice cubes now. The syrup will settle at the bottom, creating that first pink layer.

Add the milk: Gently pour your milk over the ice (or directly onto the syrup if serving hot). For a hot latte, warm the milk until steaming but not boiling. For an iced version, use cold milk. The milk will mix slightly with the syrup, creating a soft pink ombre effect.

Layer the matcha: Slowly pour the prepared matcha over the back of a spoon held just above the milk. This technique helps the matcha float on top, creating the signature green layer. Watch as the green gently spreads across the surface, contrasting beautifully with the pink below.

Garnish and serve: Add a few fresh strawberry slices on the rim of the glass, a light dusting of matcha powder, or an edible flower for a café-style finish. Stir before drinking to combine all the layers into a creamy, fruity, earthy blend.