I’ve found that simply using the gourd right away, without any traditional curing process, creates the best situation to extend the life of your gourd. Using the gourd right away and gently scraping out the inner walls every night after sipping mate is all you need to do.
If you want to cure your gourd, add hot water to the gourd, wait 20 minutes, scrape, and let it dry before using. Now although I don’t believe in curing gourds because of the false claims, if you’re doing it for tradition, then by all means go for it. Over several weeks, the gourd will naturally cure on its own.
Curing Classic Cups
So, we will focus on curing these classic cups. Argentinians love drinking their mate from natural gourds made from the fruit of the calabash plant just like their ancestors used to do. Curing your gourd prevents its inner walls from splitting.
So now that you have all the listed items in place, here is how you can go about curing your gourd: Fill 2/3 of your gourd with an equal mix of leaves and vegetal ash. Add boiling water until it reaches the rim of your gourd. Leave this infusion inside the gourd for about 48 hours, so that the walls of the gourd can become fully impregnated with the mix. The leaves will add to the taste. After 2 days, wash the mix away using only hot water. Enjoy!
How do you make a gourd?
To remove loose tissue and material inside new calabash gourds, we will be using one of two curing methods below.
The faster method takes 20 minutes. Both clear out the inside. Gourds can impart a bitter taste.
The gourd provides a natural experience. It allows you to fully appreciate the flavor. The gourd also acts as an insulator, keeping it warm for longer. It enhances the taste by imparting subtle earthy notes.
All you need is a gourd, leaves, and water for filtering leaves.
I had to search for more gourds, which allowed me to start making gourds for sale. Customizing emerged – people love them.
You should rinse very well after use. Small dark spots are normal.
Every natural gourd should be cured before first use, which helps remove loose tissue and prepares it.
What kind of gourd is used?
The traditional gourd is made from a calabash squash, varying in shape with a very hard shell. There are also other types of cups:
- Calabash Gourd: Traditional gourd from the fruit.
- Wood: Classic cups. Requires curing to improve taste and longevity.
Gourds stain from yerba, darkening over time. Mold by drying between uses. Choose straws wisely.
How do you treat a leather gourd?
Curing clears material inside. They impart bitter taste.
Traditional:
- Add moist leaves. Cover completely.
- Add warm water. Helps remove dust.
- Let sit 24 hours. Remove leaves.
Modern:
- Prepare cleaning solution with vinegar and water.
- Add solution for 20 minutes.
Gourds stain naturally over time. Prevent mold by drying fully between uses. Clean under 180°F to avoid cracks.