Storage time
If you keep it in an air-tight container like a glass jar with a lid away from light, what is the shelf life? Is it like tea or coffee where it will become stale? Or is it like certain types of tea like pu-erh where it ages and takes on different flavours?
Preparation
This South American beverage is prepared by filling a container, traditionally a small, hollowed-out gourd, up to three-quarters full with dry leaves (and twigs) of I. paraguariensis, and filling it up with water at 70–80 °C (158–176 °F), hot but not extremely hot because a much higher water temperature can lead to a more bitter taste.
Health Benefits
It provides an energy boost due to its high caffeine content, which is linked to increased alertness, improved concentration and enhanced physical performance. Containing a moderate amount of caffeine, this drink’s brain-enhancing benefits are well known. Caffeine helps to motivate by stimulating the production of dopamine, the body’s natural “feel-good” neurotransmitter.
Properties
-
The leaves are called yerba in Spanish or even in Portuguese. Both words mean herb. The leaves are evergreen, about 5 inches long and have scalloped edges. If you picture a holly leaf, you’re very close to what this herb looks like.
-
It was first used by the indigenous Guarani people. The branches are dried by a wood fire, giving it a smoky flavor. The caffeine content is similar to that of green tea. In many parts of South America, it is much more popular than coffee.
-
It boasts vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It is known to boost energy levels, improve mental focus, and aid digestion. It provides a rich and complex flavor.
-
The mind sharpens and focus and concentration are enhanced when drinking it. There is a palpable sensation of euphoria. This is what makes it remarkable.
Storage time
The shelf life depends on storage. Stored properly in a cool, dry place, away from light and moisture, it can last 1 to 2 years. Check for mould, smell changes or colour changes. Discard if present. It can be stored in the fridge for months in an airtight container. It can also be frozen in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn.
Culture and customs
Argentinians usually drink it for breakfast with fruit juice or before sunset, hot or cold depending on weather. It has become increasingly common to drink canned, bottled or as energy drinks, convenient to drink on the go anytime. Sharing it forges emotional links between people, taking Argentinians back to their roots.
Properties
It is a subtropical tree with caffeine-filled leaves used for tea and as a houseplant. It produces small greenish-white flowers in late fall and early winter. It has specific requirements for outdoor planting and is best grown indoors above 60°F year-round.
Health risks
Drinking large quantities daily may be influenced by other factors in drinking populations like smoking and poor oral hygiene. Some studies link excessive consumption to cancers but research isn’t conclusive. Don’t drink while pregnant, breastfeeding or on some medications.
Tea types
Preparing loose-leaf yerba mate in a gourd will last a lot longer compared to a tea bag. A gourd can be continuously refilled and reused, lasting up to a full liter of water compared to one cup from a tea bag. This makes loose-leaf perfect for drinking both alone and with friends and family.
Storage time
Depending on storage, it has a shelf life of one to two years before it needs to be replaced. An unopened package kept in an airtight container away from light can last as long as tea or coffee before becoming stale.
It is available in loose-leaf, tea bags, and canned drinks. Loose leaf provides a fuller flavor and aroma. Tea bags offer convenience and simplicity. Canned drinks are ready to drink, perfect for on-the-go situations.
It can generally last between 1 to 2 years stored properly in a cool, dry place, away from direct light and moisture. Check for signs of spoilage before use. Discard it if any signs of spoilage are present. It can last for several months in the fridge when stored in an airtight container. It can also be frozen but is best stored in an airtight container.
Recommendations
Let’s take a closer look at 5 products. Rosamonte Special Selection has a smooth, relatively mild taste with pleasant complexity. I recommend this to everyone, especially beginners. It was the first traditional blend that I tried, and I still consider it one of my favorites.
Properties
It is a traditional South American beverage brewed by steeping the leaves, which contain caffeine. While not a true tea, it is becoming popular.
Benefits
- Yerba Mate acts as a natural digestive, provides an energy boost, and helps the body rid itself of excess fluids so you feel energized. It’s often referred to as the “drink of life” or “drink of energy” and has been consumed in South America for centuries.
Composition
-
It contains caffeine, theobromine and theophylline. It’s described as ‘a grassy infusion’ like a smoky green tea.
-
It tea increases mental awareness and focus due to the mateina it contains, which is a kind of caffeine. It is a stimulant for mind and body. More people choose it as a pre workout drink over energy drinks.
Culture and customs
-
It is served in a hollow calabash gourd with a metallic drinking straw called a Bombilla. Sharing it represents hospitality and bonding.
-
It is the traditional drink of Argentina, consumed in about 92% of households.