Overview
This grassy infusion is a popular South American beverage brewed from the leaves of the yerba mate plant. It has a long history of traditional use and cultural significance. Modern preparation methods include using a gourd and metal straw, french press, tea bags, or cold brewing.
This South American drink has several reported health benefits. It can provide a caffeine boost for increased energy and focus. Some research indicates it may support weight loss through increased metabolism and appetite suppression. However, drinking very large amounts for long periods may have cancer risks. Moderation is advised.
Traditional Method
The traditional method uses a gourd bowl and a metal straw with a filter. The gourd is filled with yerba mate leaves then hot water (not boiling) is poured over. The metal straw strains out the leaves to sip the infusion. This method is communal, with the gourd passed around a circle of friends and family.
Alternative Methods
Alternative brewing methods include french press, tea bags, or cold water soaking. Sweeteners like honey or stevia can be added to taste. The flavor is grassy, vegetal and bitter, with effervescent herbal notes. Through proper preparation, the wonderful properties of this special beverage can be enjoyed.
What are the rules for drinking this South American drink?
Components
There are 4 components that make up drinking it:
- a gourd
- a metal straw to strain leaves
- yerba mate leaves
- hot water
Spoon bombillas filter best when drinking mate. Brands have different tastes, strengths and mildness.
Preparation
To prepare it, you’ll need a gourd, bombilla, and leaves. Fill the gourd with leaves and pour in hot water. Tilt the mate cup to leave space. Sip through the bombilla. Avoid drinking mate in the evening, especially if caffeine sensitive.
History
The Gauchos adopted yerba mate drinking from native tribes. Traditionally, use a gourd, bombilla, yerba mate leaves and hot water. Put leaves in the gourd, add hot water, and sip through the straw.
You can also prepare yerba mate using a french press, tea bags or cold brewing. Adding herbs can improve the flavor and effects.
How to make this South American drink?
Overview
It is a South American drink made from the leaves of a holly plant. It has cultural importance in countries like Argentina, Uruguay, Bolivia, Paraguay, Brazil and Chile. To prepare it, you need yerba mate leaves, a mate gourd or cup, a metal straw called a bombilla, and hot water. Optional ingredients include sweetener, lemon, or milk.
Equipment
The mate gourd is a traditional South American cup used to brew yerba mate. It’s typically made from natural materials like wood or gourd and often decorated. The bombilla is a metal straw used to stir and drink the yerba mate.
Method
To make it, put the leaves in the mate gourd, adding between 1/4 and 3/4 the size of the cup depending on desired strength. Cover with 70-80°C water. Insert the bombilla and drink the infusion. Alternatives include preparing as an infusion in a tea filter, or soaking leaves in cold water before adding hot water.
It offers various health benefits like boosting energy, aiding digestion, and improving heart health. It has cultural importance shared among friends and is a symbol of friendship and hospitality.
How much of this South American drink should I drink per day?
Overview
It is a traditional drink in South American countries. It is prepared from the leaves of the Ilex Paraguariensis plant. The amount you drink daily depends on your own tolerance. Consider that yerba mate is an herb, like oregano and mint. Herbs are generally safe to consume generously without hesitation.
It may provide vitamins, minerals, amino acids and antioxidants. It also contains some caffeine. Avoid constant consumption. Have 2-3 drinks per day at most. Don’t drink it in the evening, especially if caffeine affects you.
Research on potential cancer risk is unclear. But it may help prevent cancer due to its healthy compounds.
Consumption
- South Americans safely drink 1-4 liters daily.
- In North America and Europe, avid drinkers consume 1-2 liters per day.
- Enjoy it in moderation as too much of anything can have risks. It is a natural plant like any other tea or vegetable you eat.
Serving
It is traditionally served in a gourd with a metal straw. It can be served hot or cold. To prepare, fill a third of the gourd with leaves then add hot water. It’s often topped off with more hot water and new leaves. People commonly share one gourd in groups as a sign of friendship.
In addition to the traditional preparation, there are variations like mate cocido, an infusion similar to tea, and yerba mate gringo, soaked in cold water then hot. Enjoy the unique tradition of yerba mate social gatherings for several hours while appreciating nature.