Can I brew mate like tea?
This drink is a tea growing in popularity due to health benefits and flavor. It improves brain function and prevents cancers. It naturally contains stimulants like theobromine. Mate can provide an energy boost without side effects like insomnia.
It’s made by steeping leaves like tea but has extra steps that make it special. Mate should be enjoyed slowly with loved ones. Properly brewing mate makes the experience better. What are the mate brewing methods?
The Traditional Method
The traditional method makes the tastiest mate. This ceremony adds to the experience beyond taste and health benefits. Tools needed are a bombilla and gourd.
To enjoy mate traditionally:
- Ingredients: Mate leaves, cold water, hot water
- Steep 3-5 minutes. Temperature and method changes the flavor.
Cold Brew Method
Cold brew mate is popular in hot regions with these steps:
- Fill tea bags with 1 tbsp mate per cup of water.
- Add flavorings.
Originally consumed in South America, mate was cultivated by indigenous Guarani people before European colonization.
Beginner’s Guide
How do you drink mate for beginners?
Mate is a tea with smooth, earthy flavor. In North America and Europe, drinking 1-2 liters per day is common among mate enthusiasts.
The traditional method uses a gourd and bombilla. You can also make it simpler by steeping the leaves in a French press or tea strainer. Tea bags are easy options. Cold brewing mate is popular.
To enhance the flavor, add citrus, mint, cinnamon, or herbs. Milk is commonly added to soften the flavor.
Drinking mate is energizing but avoid overconsumption. Limit yourself to 2-3 drinks per day.
Can you make mate in a normal cup?
The simplest method is to treat mate like any other tea; steep it in hot water, about 160 to 180 degrees, and then filter out the leaves before drinking. In order to enjoy mate traditionally you must prepare it properly.
Aside from your loose leaf mate, the traditional method requires two tools: a bombilla and a gourd. The bombilla is a special metal straw with a filter at one end. Mate gourds come in all shapes, sizes, and materials.
Start by filling your mate gourd until 3⁄4 full. Shake it to make the bigger pieces sink down, keeping it reclined at a 45-degree angle. Pour warm water onto the lower part and wait 30 seconds. Put the bombilla into the wet mate and pour in more hot water. Never flood the cup as you want to keep repeating this process.
Tips for Enjoying Mate
What do you mix with mate tea?
Mate is a drink with hints of tobacco and oak from a South American plant. Steps to make mate: Add loose leaves or bags to not boiling water. Steep 3-5 minutes. Flavors include fruit juice, dried fruit, mint, or milk.
Tereré is an iced variation, popular in hot regions. Brew mate with cool water, sometimes adding fruit juice. The traditional method uses a gourd and bombilla straw. Pour mate into the gourd, add water, insert the metal straw, and sip. Mate can also be made using a French press, tea infuser, or coffee machine. Never use boiling water, which makes it bitter.
In South America mate is consumed all day. The dried leaves can be reused by adding more hot water. The flavor gets weaker but the health benefits remain.
I hope you enjoy mate, let me know what you think!