Mate is a tea made from the leaves of the Ilex paraguariensis plant native to parts of South America. It is a popular beverage in Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, Brazil and Chile. The traditions around drinking the herbal infusion began with indigenous tribes who viewed it as a gift. Cowboys called gauchos adopted the custom and the drink became part of the rural culture.
Preparing Mate
Preparing mate involves a gourd also called a mate, a metal straw with holes called a bombilla, dry mate leaves, and hot water. The bombilla strains the leaf powder so only the infusion is sipped. Mate can be served hot or as a cooler terere mixed with fruit juice. It has a bitter grassy flavor that is often enjoyed without sweetener.
The Social Aspects
Sharing mate is a social tradition that brings people together. Passing the mate gourd in a circle forbids the drinker from thanking the server. It fosters conversation and friendship. Newcomers learn ritual etiquette like not slurping too loudly despite the hot temperature. Drinking mate is less about the beverage than cementing emotional bonds.
Originally cultivated by the Guaraní people, today, yerba mate remains a popular caffeinated drink across countries like Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay and parts of Brazil, Chile and Bolivia. The name "yerba mate" means "gourd herb" in Spanish.
Preparation
To prepare yerba mate, put leaves in the mate and invert it to discard excess herb powder. Add a little hot water to moisten leaves into a sticky paste. Insert the bombilla where water was poured. More hot water can then be added from the bombilla side and sipping can begin. The bombilla should remain fixed while drinking. More hot water is added once finished to continue drinking.
In addition to health benefits, the mate ritual forges social and cultural connections between people across South America.
The caffeine does not produce jitteriness. It has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Wild grown yerba mate is most desirable since it lacks chemicals. Organic cultivation is also possible. Although slightly costlier, organic yerba mate is healthier.
I prefer the Cruz de Malta brand for its strong, smoky flavor and natural sweetness. No need to add sugar. It provides an awakening lift without the caffeine crash of coffee.
Pronunciation and Translation
The Spanish pronunciation is [ˈɟʝeɾβa ˈmate]. The stress falls on "mate". While "yerba" means "herb", the name translates as the “gourd herb” drunk from a gourd.
Health Compounds
Yerba mate leaves contain compounds like caffeine and chlorogenic acid. These stimulate and contribute to the bitter taste. The drink also provides some vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Additionally, yerba mate may inhibit E. coli bacteria growth to prevent sickness. Its polyphenols have antimicrobial effects against infections.