Yerba Mate
for every occasion
How to Choose and Prepare Yerba for the Perfect Mate and Tereré
Why is it important to master the art of choosing and preparing yerba mate?
Because yerba mate is not just a beverage, it’s an experience, a lifestyle, and it deserves to be enjoyed to its fullest.
What Should You Consider When Buying Yerba Mate?
Choosing the right yerba is the first step to preparing the perfect mate or tereré. Not all yerba is the same; there are different varieties and qualities that can affect both the flavor and the benefits you get from the drink.
Type of Cut
Yerba mate can come in fine, coarse, or mixed cuts.
A fine cut produces a stronger flavor and releases more nutrients, while a coarse cut offers a milder taste. Mixed cuts combine the best of both worlds.
Origin of the Yerba
Yerbas from different regions have distinct characteristics. Yerbas from Argentina and Paraguay are known for their unique profiles, due to climate conditions and cultivation methods.
Aging Time
The aging of yerba mate refers to the time the leaves are left to rest before being packaged. Yerbas with longer aging times tend to have a milder and less bitter flavor.
Practical Tip
If you’re new to the world of mate or tereré, start with a coarse-cut, mild-flavored yerba. As you become accustomed, you can experiment with stronger varieties.
The Ritual of Preparation
More than Just Making a Drink
Preparing mate is a ritual that goes beyond simply mixing hot water with yerba.
It’s a process that, when done correctly, can intensify the flavors and maximize the benefits of the yerba. By following these steps, you’ll enjoy the perfect mate every time.
Select the Right Mate and Bombilla: Choose a mate (the container) made of gourd, wood, or glass, depending on your preferences. The bombilla, which is the straw with a filter, is also essential; make sure it’s made of high-quality material, such as stainless steel.
Fill the Mate: Fill the mate three-quarters full with yerba. Tilt the mate so that the yerba piles up on one side, creating an empty space on the other.
Add Cold Water First: This is a crucial step that many skip. Adding a little cold water to the gap helps to moisten the yerba and prevents it from burning when you add the hot water.
Add Hot (Not Boiling) Water: The water should be at a temperature between 70 and 80 degrees Celsius. Pouring boiling water over the yerba can ruin the flavor and destroy its nutrients.
Place the Bombilla and Enjoy: Insert the bombilla and start enjoying. Remember that the first sip is usually the strongest and most bitter, but as you continue, the flavor softens.
Even the most experienced can make mistakes when preparing mate. Here are some of the most common errors and how to avoid them:
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Using Boiling Water: As mentioned earlier, boiling water can burn the yerba, resulting in a bitter and unpleasant flavor. Always use hot, but not boiling, water.
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Not Moistening the Yerba First: This small step makes a big difference. Moistening the yerba with cold water first helps the mate have a more balanced flavor.
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Reusing Yerba for Too Long: As you consume the mate, the yerba loses its flavor and benefits. When you notice the flavor becomes too mild or bland, it’s time to replace it.
