What You’ll Need
- A French press
- Yerba mate leaves
- Hot water (150-180°F)
- A small amount of cool water
Instructions
- Add 1-2 tablespoons of yerba mate per cup of water to the French press
- Moisten leaves with a splash of cool water
- Fill French press most of the way with hot water
- Brew for 4-6 minutes
- Press down plunger
Tips
- Use filtered water for best flavor
- Recommended ratio is 1-2 tbsp per 8 oz water
- Steeping time changes flavor strength
- Can also cold brew in French press
Reasons to Use a French Press
- Don’t have traditional bombilla and gourd
- Find traditional preparation too strong
- Want to make iced yerba mate
- Want to add sugar or honey
- More convenient than traditional method
Traditional Method
Traditionally, yerba mate is brewed in a gourd and sipped through a special straw called a bombilla. The French press method brews quicker and easier, allows making multiple servings at once, and produces a smooth, flavorful, bold cup of yerba mate.
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