Water Temperature and Flavor
Water temperature greatly affects the flavor profile of the herbal tea in a French press. By exploring different brewing methods and adjusting the grams based on water temperature, I’ve found that one can enhance the taste and experience. After exploring the intricacies of measuring for French press brewing, I’ve discovered that achieving the perfect strength is a delicate balance considering factors such as French press size and personal preference to determine the ideal grams. Avoiding common mistakes and experimenting with different grams can lead to unique and delightful flavors.
Traditional Preparation
The infusion, called mate in Spanish-speaking countries, chimarrão in Brazil, is prepared by filling a container with dry leaves and twigs of I. paraguariensis and water at 70–80 °C.
After reaching Europe, the herbal tea has been adapted to the apparatus at hand by brewing it in a French press coffee maker similar to ground coffee by removing the filter and plunger, adding tablespoons and a dash of room temperature water to coat before pouring hot water over and leaving for around three minutes then returning the filter to plunge and drink without a bombilla. Sugar or sweetener can be added if bitter. With teabags being the simplest way to try it – perfect for beginners by placing a teabag in your mug of choice.
Comparison to Green Tea
Besides caffeine difference, green tea has a lighter, arid taste and shorter steep time compared to the South American beverage which provides more energy. Both have antioxidants but it contains Chlorogenic acid.
Proper Preparation
Properly prepared mate is balanced throughout drinking by partially touching it with water eventually using it all over time as you pour more water. Best temperature is 65°C to 85°C. Boiling water ruins the taste and is dangerous.
Basic Recipe
Yerba mate is a tea made from the leaves and twigs of the Ilex paraguariensis plant. To brew it in a French press, use a ratio of 1-2 tablespoons per 8 ounces of water. Pour about 3 ounces of cool water over before adding the hot water, then let it steep for 3-7 minutes. Enjoy on its own or add herbs like mint or fruits like lemon for extra flavor.
Mate Cocido Recipe
The usual ratio for mate cocido is 1 part to 15 parts hot water. Brew in a French press by slowly pushing down the plunger as the leaves can clog it more easily than coffee grounds. Let steep 3-7 minutes then strain and drink.
Health Benefits
It provides caffeine for an energy boost but has more nutrients than coffee or tea. It also contains antioxidants and can aid metabolism and fat burning. The traditional way to prepare it is to add it to a gourd then pour hot water over it and drink through a metal straw called a bombilla. For tereré, a cold drink, use cool water and add herbs or fruits.
Step-by-Step Brewing
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to brew it in a French press:
- Place 1.5 tbsp per cup of water in the press
- Pour cold water over to protect from hot water
- Let water absorb for 30 seconds
- Pour nearly boiling water
You can adjust strength by using more and steeping 1-3 minutes. Electric kettles with infusers also work well.
Flavor and Nutrients
It has an earthy, smooth flavor. It contains caffeine and oils like bulletproof coffee.
To make 3 cups:
- Boil water
- Add 6 tsps to the French press
- Brew for 10 minutes to extract nutrients
- Add 1 tbsp grass-fed butter
You can also use teabags or make cold brew. Mix with herbs to improve flavor.
Traditional Preparation Tips
Traditionally, it is made with a bombilla (straw) and gourd. Use hot, not boiling, water between 150-185°F. Too much can be bitter and strong. Properly prepared mate balances flavor throughout the drinking session.
Key Facts
It grows on an evergreen holly plant native to South America. Leaves grown in shade have better flavor and nutrients. Leaves are harvested every winter or two.
Key Takeaways. Brewing in a French press enhances flavor. Choosing quality brands is important for taste. The brewing time is 5 minutes. The mate-to-water ratio is typically 1 tablespoon per cup of water. The water temperature should be between 150°F (65°C) and 170°F (75°C) for a milder taste. Adding too many leaves can result in a bitter taste.
Equipment Needed
All you need for making tea in a French press is loose leaf and clean drinking water. And a French press coffee maker.
Amount Per Cup
The amount per cup depends on several factors, including strength, cup size, and taste. On average, most people use 2-3 tablespoons per cup. More or less can be used depending on preference. Personal preference plays a role in determining amount per cup.
Geographic Origins
It is traditionally consumed in central and southern regions of South America, primarily in Paraguay, Argentina, Uruguay, Brazil, Bolivia and Chile.
Additional Recipes
Fill your french press with 1.5 tablespoons and wet it to prevent scorching. Heat water until 170oF (77oC) and pour in 6 ounces. Steep for 5 minutes or until tea is dark green/yellow.
Place 1.5 tbsp per cup water in french press. Pour water over to increase nutrient content. Let cool water absorb for 30 seconds. Bring water to nearly a boil, not quite, then pour.
Add about one tablespoon for every 12 ounces water in the press, moisten leaves with water, let sit, then add hot water. Let leaves float to top and settle.