This caffeinated drink originates from Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay, and Brazil. Indigenous peoples in these areas have been drinking it for centuries as an energizing beverage with medicinal properties. You’ll be amazed by the abundance of antioxidants and nutrients found in the mate infusion.
The method of preparing the herbal tea varies considerably from region to region. The gourd vessel called mate in Spanish. The gourd is nearly filled with yerba, and hot water, typically at 70 to 85 °C, never boiling, is added.
Argentina
Argentina is the second largest producer of yerba mate globally. I usually recommend beginners to try Argentinian yerba mate first. Argentinians usually drink it for breakfast or just before sunset, hot or cold depending on the weather. More than a habit, getting together to matear forges emotional links between people.
Yerba mate consumption in Argentina rises up to 14 pounds a year per capita. It is ingested in 90% of the country’s households. Argentines carry a thermos of hot water with them for their daily cups of the herbal tea.
In addition to the traditional recipe, there are variations of this drink. Alternatively, it can also be prepared as an infusion, similar to how it is made with tea, in which case it is called ‘mate cocido’. Mate drinkers claim to feel a double effect, both stimulating and relaxing.
Summary
Yerba mate is a traditional South American beverage made from the leaves of the yerba mate plant native to Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay, and Brazil. It contains caffeine, antioxidants and is prepared by steeping dried leaves in hot water, then consumed through a special straw. Yerba mate is the national drink of Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay and Brazil where it is more popular than coffee or tea. It has many health benefits due to its antioxidant properties which protect cells, reduce inflammation and lower disease risk. Additionally it contains essential nutrients important for wellbeing. In Argentina consumption rises 14 pounds per person yearly, ingested in 90% of households. Argentinians drink it for breakfast or before sunset, hot or cold depending on weather. It forges emotional links between people taking them back to their roots.
Yerba mate in Europe
Do they have yerba mate in Europe?
This caffeinated herbal tea originally hails from Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay, and Brazil. It has medicinal properties. Indigenous peoples in these areas have been drinking it for centuries as an energizing beverage. It may have originated in Argentina, this tea has now spread far beyond its home country and can be found globally.
Although mate culture isn’t as pronounced in Poland as in Argentina, it’s way more evolved than in other European countries. Variation comes from the way each type is harvested, processed, and aged. Argentina is the second largest producer globally. I usually recommend beginners to try Argentinian first.
Over the centuries, the art of sharing mate has been passed down through generations. In fact, many of the traditions we still see today have been commonplace for years across South America! Whilst mate rituals vary slightly by country, these rules are pretty much universal.
Global popularity
Where is yerba mate consumed?
Yerba mate is most popular in Uruguay and Argentina. Indigenous peoples first cultivated it before European colonization. The name "mate" comes from the Quechua word for "gourd" or "infusion".
Yerba mate holds cultural importance in Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay and Brazil as well as globally. Argentina has the highest per capita consumption annually. Uruguay consumes the most mate globally per person annually.
Yerba mate is gaining popularity worldwide for its flavor, caffeine and health benefits. It provides income for producers and brings people together. Though methods vary, the spirit of mate transcends borders.