There are many kinds of mates. Mates come in varied shapes, colours and materials – there is something for everybody! We will discuss the factors to consider when choosing a mate cup, including size, shape, material and design.
The Traditional Gourd Mate
The most traditional is the gourd mate. First, a ripe and dry gourd is selected, preferably a specific variety such as the calabash. Then an opening is cut at the top, the seeds and pulp are removed. Next it is sanded and shaped to create a cavity for the herb.
Durability of Materials
The durability depends on material and care. Gourds need proper curing to avoid bitterness. Alpaca or silver straws avoid corrosion. Alloys like stainless steel make durable modern mates. Ceramics allow creative shapes but chip if dropped.
Choosing Based on Preferences
Choose based on ritualistic elements versus functionality, personal preferences and budget. Enjoy the rich antioxidants and nutrients from a unique vessel shared among friends.
The best material for a herbal tea cup is stainless steel. Stainless steel cups are durable, don’t absorb heat from the tea, and remind you of traditional Argentine mate gourds.
When choosing a mate cup, consider the material, as it affects taste and temperature, size and capacity, as they determine how much mate you can enjoy, and design and aesthetics, as a visually appealing cup enhances the experience.
Gourd and Other Materials
The most popular material is a gourd. Gourds are highly prized for durability and can withstand years of use. Stainless steel doesn’t absorb flavors and is dishwasher safe.
The traditional gourd mate is made from a specific variety of dried, hollowed out gourd. Glass mates are made by fusing and molding glass into a shape to hold herb, with a smooth finish. Gourds are durable but glass is resistant to high temperatures.
Do You Need a Special Cup for Yerba Mate?
Consider personal preferences when choosing accessories. Gourds are available in traditional or modern styles, made from natural materials like calabash or wood, or from stainless steel or silicone. The metal straw with a filter at the end, so consider the length and style when choosing.
This brand of herb from Capital teas is a combination of energizing mate and green tea making for the ultimate synergy. It contains the health benefits of both and comes in loose-leaf form for perfect steeping.
Gourd Styles and Sizes
The first thing you’ll need is a gourd (also called a mate). Gourds come in all shapes, sizes, and materials. If you want to go the traditional route which I recommend, you’ll need a calabash gourd.
One of the main reasons people love mate is its stimulating and energizing effect, the same reason people like to have coffee or tea in the morning. The caffeine contained in stimulates the central nervous system and increases focus and energy levels ideal for undertaking any activity in your daily routine.
With the non-organic type of mate cups, such as silicon, glass, metal or ceramic, you do not need to cure your mate cup, and the maintaining is the same as with any ordinary cup. It will not absorb the taste and you can use it for a sweet and bitter mate.
Sweeteners for Yerba Mate
There are lots of great sweetener options for yerba mate. For hot tea, try honey; it will dissolve in the mate, leaving a floral sweetness behind. For iced mate, try making a simple syrup to sweeten the tea: Combine equal parts water and sugar in a medium saucepan.
Best Brands
So which brands are the best? Our favorite combine great flavor with responsible production practices, reasonable pricing, and ease of use. If you’re new to tea, you may prefer a non-traditional blend with added flavors and fewer stems.
Making Mate in a French Press
Making in a french press is one of the best alternatives to the traditional method (with a gourd and bombilla), especially when you don’t have enough time on your hands.
We’ve helped hundreds of people like you to prepare their first mate and have come up with this easy step-by-step guide that will teach you how to become a master in the art of making yerba mate.
I find that this recipe provides the best focus and energy with the combination of caffeine and oils working together – similar to the infamous bulletproof coffee that Dave Asprey makes. Place 6 tsps of Yerba mate in the french press. I use this french press if you’re curious. Brew – Pour hot water in! I let it soak for the maximum time (10 min) to extract all the nutrients & caffeine.