The mate leaves are native to South America. The leaves are used to make a tea called mate. It has an earthy flavor that varies slightly depending on how it was grown and brewed.
The South American tea contains caffeine but does not make the drinker jittery. It has adaptogenic properties that regulate the body’s systems. As a result, the South American tea provides wide health benefits including improved focus, increased energy, and reduced inflammation.
When served cold, the drink is called tereré. It was first cultivated by indigenous Guaraní prior to European colonization.
Flavor Intensity
The flavor intensity varies from mild to very bold. It’s best to start with a mild mate and work up to bolder flavors as your taste for it develops.
Blended Varieties
There are blended teas available too, like one mixed with mint and lemon. These can make the South American infusion more approachable for beginners.
Brewing Methods
Using a French press is an easy way to make iced mate. Just brew hot mate first, then cool it down by adding citrus juice, honey or mint.
Never use boiling water to brew the South American tea, because that makes the brew much more bitter. This recipe uses a blend of cool and hot water.
You can prepare and consume the South American tea in ice tea form called ‘tereré’.
- Use French Press
Another fast, easy way to prepare the tea is in a French press. This is a great option to invite guests to try some tea.
The South American tea is best consumed on its own as an energizing and nutrient-rich infusion, sipped through a filtered straw straight out of a mate gourd.
Add Sweeteners
- Add sweeteners like sugar or honey
- Brew with a blend of cool and hot water, not boiling water
Flavor Enhancements
- Add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg
- Use a French press or tea bag instead of the traditional gourd and bombilla
Mix With Herbs
- Mix with herbs like mint or lemongrass
Other Methods
Other methods like using a French press or tea bags work too. Cold brewing the South American tea is also popular. Experiment by adding spices, herbs or sweeteners to improve the flavor.