Tea Strainer Method
Use a tea strainer or infuser. Put the leaves into the strainer and place it over a cup. Slowly pour hot water through to infuse. Adjust the amount to taste.
Teapot Method
Simply add the leaves to the teapot with hot water. Cover and let steep for 5 minutes before pouring into a teacup.
French Press Method
A French press also works well. Add the leaves to the press. Pour in hot water and let steep for around 5 minutes. Then press the plunger to strain the solids.
Mug Method
For a single serving, you can prepare it like normal tea in a mug.
Water Temperature
No matter the preparation method, use water between 140-170°F and about 1 tablespoon per 8 ounces of water. Avoid boiling water as it can ruin the flavor. With these simple tips, you can easily make great yerba mate without specialized equipment.
Pour-Over or French Press
This perfuming infusion can be made with a pour-over or French press. This brings out an incredible taste, drawing out some of the same flavors that a gourd would. Add 1-2 tablespoons of yerba mate to every cup of water and place it into a coffee filter. Let it soak for about a minute, gently pouring over hot water in a circular motion to wet evenly.
Cold Brew
In Paraguay it is drank cold, replacing the hot water for water and ice. Instead of the gourd, a cured cow horn is used to contain the yerba mate. This preparation is known as "Terere".
Simple Brewing Methods
Brewing yerba mate is easy. Here are some simple methods:
-
Place loose leaves in a strainer and steep in hot water. Discard leaves when done.
-
Use a tea infuser filled with 2-3 teaspoons of yerba mate per 6 ounces of water.
-
Prepare in a French press like you would coffee. Put yerba mate where you’d normally place grounds.
Traditional Gourd Method
Traditionally, yerba mate is drunk from a hollowed gourd with a filtered straw called a bombilla. Gourds take on its flavor over time for a more robust cup.
Tea Strainer Tips
Many ways exist to make yerba mate without a gourd. Use a tea strainer with 2-3 teaspoons of yerba mate leaves over an 8 oz cup. Pour water at 80-100°F through strainer. Keep water under 75°C to avoid bitter taste. Don’t overfill gourd, 3/4 full is enough. Traditional mate is bitter but you can add a bit of sugar.