This South American herb is used to make a tea consumed in South America. It has a long history originating with indigenous peoples like the Guaraní. Now it is most popular in Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay and parts of Brazil. This caffeinated beverage has many health benefits. It gives energy, improves mood, increases focus and reduces fatigue. Research also shows it helps with weight loss by increasing satiety and fat oxidation.
Unlike coffee, it provides energy without as much anxiety. It has less caffeine than coffee but still gives an energy boost. For many habitual caffeine drinkers, it is a healthier alternative.
Most people consume it by steeping it in hot water to make a tea. But it can also be served cold. This is called tereré in Guaraní. To prepare cold tea, you steep the leaves in cool water instead. Some people also use it to make kombucha which removes some of the caffeine.
When storing it, keep it in a cool, dark place. If humidity is an issue, refrigeration can help it remain fresh for longer. But refrigeration is not strictly necessary as long as you will use it within a few months. Signs that it has spoiled include loss of flavor, changes in aroma or appearance of mold.
This South American herb is traditionally consumed as a caffeinated beverage. This popular drink goes by many names depending on preparation method, including "mate", "tereré", or "chimarrão".
When storing it, keep it in an airtight container in a cool, dark place or refrigerate between 32-40°F. This prevents moisture loss and mold growth, extending shelf life. An unopened package can last around two years stored properly. However, always inspect it before drinking for any signs of spoilage like discoloration, musty smell, or bad taste.
The ideal serving of leaves fills about half of the gourd or cup. Too much overflows, too little under-extracts. The bombilla straw strainer controls leaf flow while sipping. Mate drinks by passing the gourd and bombilla between people, creating social bonds.
Steep time impacts flavor. Quick 1-3 minute steeps bring out gentle grassy notes. Longer steeps become stronger and more bitter. Cold "tereré" mate steeps overnight in the fridge. Hot water "mate" takes 3-5 minutes. Iteratively taste test what you prefer.
The origins of it date back centuries with South America’s indigenous Guaraní tribes. Stories say the forest god "Yari" gave it to them. The drink later spread through European colonizers and immigrants. Today people worldwide enjoy its gentle caffeine lift. In Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay and Paraguay, mate remains integral to local culture.
When storing loose leaf it, place it in an airtight container or resealable bag to prevent exposure to moisture and odors. This will ensure it remains fresh for a longer period of time. Additionally, keep it away from strong-smelling foods in the refrigerator to avoid any flavor contamination.
The shelf life can generally last between 1 to 2 years if stored properly in a cool, dry place, away from direct light and moisture. It’s recommended to check it for signs of spoilage, such as a musty or mouldy smell, discolouration or a change in taste.
You can reuse it, as long as you don’t see any mold or mildew growing. The best way to store it overnight is to use a stainless-steel gourd, as a traditional wooden one may grow mold.
It is a South American tea made from the leaves and stems of the plant. Unlike other stimulant beverages, guayaki it contains vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, polyphenols and amino acids as well as caffeine.
It contains 85 milligrams of caffeine compared to 90 milligrams present in a standard cup of coffee. For this reason, it is a popular ingredient in energy drinks, energy shots, and workout drinks. It also contains xanthine known as theobromine that affects the delivery of energy. This naturally occurring stimulant delivers a longer-lasting and smoother energy boost than coffee.