Whether you’re a seasoned mate drinker or a curious novice, this guide will equip you with the knowledge and skills to brew the perfect cup of yerba mate. Yerba Mate, scientifically known as Ilex paraguariensis, is a type of holly plant native to South America.
Getting Started with Yerba Mate
In Coffeedesk you will find everything you need to start your adventure with this infusion. I encourage you to try and break through the first barrier of bitterness and take advantage of the whole range of benefits offered by drinking the infusion of inconspicuous leaves and twigs of Paraguayan holly.
For beginners getting into yerba mate, using a tea pot is a great way to start. It still has the same earthy flavor, but it’s nowhere near as strong.
Traditionally brewed in a gourd with a metal straw called a ‘bombilla,’ this social drink brings people together to share stories and connect with each other. Whether you’re new or looking to perfect your brewing skills, this article will provide the information you need to enjoy yerba mate.
Different Ways to Brew
Some people like yerba mate cold-brewed, and some enjoy the convenience of a tea bag. There’s also the traditional way, brewing it with a gourd and using a filter-tipped straw. The latest trend has been to use a French press which provides convenience and an entirely different flavor profile.
Materials Needed
Here’s a guide on how to prepare yerba mate and everything you need to start drinking it. Mate cups come in all shapes, sizes, and materials:
- Yerba mate leaves
- Gourd or cup
- Metal straw (bombilla)
- Hot water
French Press Method
Add yerba mate to a French press. Slowly pour heated water over the leaves. Brew for 4-6 minutes depending on strength. You can now enjoy or froth for a latte-like texture.
This mellow way of preparing yerba mate gives you a taste so depending on your preference you’ll need to adjust the temperature or leave brewing longer for more intensity.
Studies have shown antioxidants and polyphenols released from longer steeping. Personal preference key for perfect balance of taste, experience.
South Americans safely drink 1-4 liters yerba mate daily. In United States, Canada, Europe avid drinkers consume at least 1-2 liters per day.
Comprehensive guide help perfect cup. Materials: leaves, gourd/cup, metal straw/bombilla, hot water.
Can you brew yerba mate like coffee? Add one tablespoon per cup of water into a coffee filter and brew as you would a normal pot of coffee.
Due to its higher level of caffeine, yerba mate is often compared to coffee. The amount of stimulant in coffee also depends on the type of brew. Although coffee and yerba mate have obvious differences, the effect each beverage has on the body is pretty big.
This recipe for yerba mate tea is made in a French press. Just like coffee and tea, yerba mate’s flavor profile changes depending on how you brew it. Some prefer cold-brewed yerba mate, and some like the convenience of a yerba mate tea bag or the flavor of a yerba mate latte brewed with milk, and yet others prefer the classic way of brewing yerba mate with a gourd and a filter-tipped straw.
The traditional way to brew and consume yerba mate tea is by using a gourd. Don’t worry if you don’t have one on hand; simply brew yerba mate using a stainless steel French press, coffee pot, teapot or espresso machine instead.
Some times you can find it in a can or a bottle in stores, but generally not and if you do find a bottle of yerba mate it will be next to 15 different coffee and tea drinks. It’s hard to find and uncommon.
Yerba mate is a stronger source of caffeine compared to coffee. When comparing caffeine content, yerba mate contains about 30-50 milligrams of caffeine per 8-ounce serving, while coffee contains 95 milligrams per 8-ounce serving. However, taste preference also plays a role in choosing between the two.
Yerba mate may provide a more balanced, sustained energy boost, potentially enhancing mood.
Yerba mate contains vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, B5, C, E and minerals like calcium. It also contains antioxidants.
The taste of yerba mate is bitter and tart when you drink it for the first time, so you can add sweetener or dried fruits.
Many yerba mate consumers are enthusiastic about it. Once you try it and start to feel its benefits you may never go back to coffee or other energy drinks. Yerba mate can increase your well-being.