Types of mate cups
The traditional infusion is connected to the container used to drink it: the mate. The mate has become an icon and heirloom. We show the types of mates and pros and cons of each. The most traditional is the gourd. Over time, mates of various materials emerged, some more durable and easier to clean. We see the mates and materials. This helps choose the best one.
- The gourd mate is most traditional. For classical drinkers, gourd or wood mates recover the origin and history. The gourd gives flavour. Cure organic mates first.
Criteria for the ideal mate cup
Mate cups are squash and the original way of drinking. The best is unique, stylish, high-quality, comfortable and perfect for everyday.
South American Vessels: A Guide to Perfect Cups
The tea ritual is daily for many. Not all cups equal. Size, shape, material and design impact taste and enjoyment. We discuss factors for mate cups.
About yerba mate
The beverage is made from Ilex paraguariensis. Traditionally consumed in South America, especially Paraguay, Argentina, Uruguay, Brazil and Chile. Also popular in Syria and Lebanon from Argentina. First cultivated by indigenous Guarani and Tupí before colonization.
Cleaning and care
Rinse cup and bombilla after use. Clean weekly with soap. We selected top Best Mate Cup and a buying guide to choose the right one. We tested numerous Best Mate Cup to compile this list. BALIBETOV is top for unmatched performance, quality and value. More great options as well. Guide helps find perfect match.
Best mate cup materials
Calabash gourds
Calabash gourds are commonly used for traditional cups. Dried, hollowed gourds represent the preparation. Often hand-carved with designs showcasing artisans.
BALIBETOV Gourd Set
BALIBETOV Gourd Set is best for authentic tea. Includes cup, bombilla (straw) and brush for perfect tea.
Pros and cons of materials
Materials have pros and cons. Wood has natural aesthetic. Prone to cracks and hard to clean. Glass is durable and easy to clean but hot. Ceramic is classic but heavier. Choosing depends on preferences.
Best modern mate straw and cup
The Best Mate Straw and Cup enhances convenience. Easy to carry without leaks for commuting and traveling. It combines functionality and sustainability for the ultimate experience.
BALIBETOV premium steel gourd
BALIBETOV Gourd has premium steel and BPA Free Lid. Arguably the best modern steel Gourd, rust free and dishwasher safe. Insulation technology keeps warmth.
Thermos mates
A thermos for mate retains heat well and has good capacity. The best overall is insulating and stainless steel. Size depends on personal preferences. Heat retention is the key function.
What is the mate cup made of?
The mate cup or hollow gourd is made of metal, glass, wood, clay, or calabash gourds. Calabash gourds are dried and hollowed-out gourds used as natural vessels for enjoying the infusion. The gourds are often hand-carved and decorated with intricate designs…
The mate is a gourd used to drink the infusion. It has evolved from being carved of wood or a hollowed gourd to now be made of glass, metal, or silicone…
Bottled drinks now allow enjoying mate on the go.
The algarrobo tree found in South America has wood that insulates well, retaining the temperature longer while letting the flavors come through cleanly.
There is an etiquette to drinking socially in a circle. The host pours the hot water and passes the mate without preference. Partaking is a sign of mutual respect and friendship. Through the tradition, bonds transcend the act itself.
The organic version avoids pesticides. Despite the slightly higher price, the health benefits make it worthwhile.
The glass mate withstands high temperatures. Its transparency allows authentic colors and flavors. The smooth surface cleans easily.
Caring properly for your mate enhances the ritual of preparing, serving, and drinking. Rites performed in sharing socially forge bonds between people that transcend the act itself.
How do you make a strong cup?
Mate is a drink made by steeping dried leaves from the plant in hot water. It tastes somewhat like green tea, with hints of tobacco and oak. To enjoy mate properly, it must be prepared properly with hot, but not boiling, water.
There are differences between types of yerba mate. The average cup contains about 70mg of caffeine compared to 120mg in coffee. However, a strong cup can have more caffeine than coffee depending on how it’s brewed.
Brewing methods
There are several ways to brew:
- Traditional Method: Use a mate gourd and bombilla. Fill half the gourd. Preheat with cold water then add hot water. Drink the infusion then refill with hot water only. Get 20+ refills from one gourd.
The traditional ceremonial experience of drinking involves sharing a gourd and bombilla while using the words "drank, pass, and fill." This is a great way to bond with friends.