Yerba mate is a South American herbal infusion known for its earthy flavour and energizing properties. Whether you’re curious about its benefits or looking for an easy way to steep it at home, this guide covers everything you need to know.
What is Yerba Mate?
Yerba mate (pronounced yer-bah mah-tay) is an herbal infusion made from the leaves of the Ilex paraguariensis plant, a species of holly. It grows natively in Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay, and southern Brazil, where it has been prepared and shared for generations.
Since it doesn’t come from the Camellia sinensis plant (the tea plant), it is technically not a tea. However, it is one of those herbal infusions that is not caffeine-free. It is naturally caffeinated and described as a smooth, focused energy drink.
Green (Unroasted) vs. Roasted Yerba Mate
When shopping for this tea you may come across green and roasted varieties. While both come from the same plant, the way the leaves are processed creates very different flavour experiences in your cup.
Green yerba mate is the more traditional form. The leaves are green and the flavour is bold and herbaceous with a fresh, vegetal edge. It can be similar to green tea but stronger and earthier.
Roasted yerba mate can be seen as a more modern variation. The leaves are gently roasted after drying, much like coffee or other roasted teas. They are brown in colour and the flavour is smooth, nutty and warm with notes of cocoa and toasted grains.
Both variations can be prepared using a gourd or a simple mug and infuser setup. If you want a more traditional experience, green is the way to go. If you prefer something smoother and less bitter, roasted may be your perfect match.
Traditional Steeping Vessel: Gourd & Bombilla
Yerba mate can often be found served in a round vessel with a metal straw. This cup is known as a gourd and the filter straw is a bombilla.
The gourd can be made from a several different materials including wood, ceramic or metal. The bombilla is a metal straw that has a built-in filter at the end. It is placed inside the gourd and it will keep the leaves out while you sip.
You do not need a gourd and bombilla to get started with this tea though. You can enjoy this tea with a simple every day set up in a regular mug. I’ll show you how below!
Health Benefits of Yerba Mate
This herbal infusion has a few health benefits, but please note that you should always consult a medical professional before taking any herbs for health purposes.
- Natural energy boost: Its caffeine and theobromine combo offers alertness without the intensity of coffee.
- High in antioxidants: It is rich in polyphenols, which support general wellness.
- Enhanced clarity and focus: A popular choice for study sessions or morning routines.
- Nutrient-rich: Contains vitamins, minerals and amino acids.
How to Make Yerba Mate
Below are two simple ways to prepare yerba mate at home. Method 1 uses tools you may already have and Method 2 stays true to its traditional roots.
To prepare this tea, you will need:
- Water: Under boiling (75-80 degrees Celsius or 160-175 degrees Fahrenheit)
- Yerba Mate: 1 tablespoon of yerba mate leaves per cup or 1 tea bag
- Teaware: Gourd and Bombilla for the traditional method, Teapot and/or mug with infuser basket or tea strainer for the more modern method
- Optional: Sweetener (ie. sugar, honey, maple syrup, agave, etc.)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Find a printable recipe card below with the full measurements and directions, too!
Method 1: Using a Teapot or Infuser Mug
Step 1: To begin, pour warm water into your steeping vessel (teapot or mug), swirl it around carefully then discard. This will warm the teapot or mug which will help the herbal tea steep properly and retain heat.
Step 2: Add yerba mate leaves or tea bag to the warm teapot or infuser mug. Pour under boiling water over the leaves and steep for 3 to 5 minutes.
Step 3: If using a teapot without an infuser, pour the steeped tea into a cup over a strainer to catch the loose tea leaves. If using an infuser in the teapot or mug, remove the infuser basket when the steeping process is complete.
Step 4: If desired, add sweetener of your choice to the cup and stir until dissolved. Enjoy!
Method 2: Using a Gourd and Bombilla
Step 1: Fill the gourd about ½ full with yerba mate leaves. Cover the top with your hand, flip the gourd upside down and shake gently. This helps move the smaller particles to the top.
Step 2: Tilt the gourd so all of the tea leaves rest on one side, forming a small slope.
Step 3: Pour a splash of warm water (not hot) into the lower side to hydrate the leaves. Let them absorb.
Step 4: Insert your bombilla into the wet section and slowly add hot water to fill the gourd. Sip, enjoy and repeat! Traditional yerba mate is meant to be enjoyed through multiple refills. Therefore, you can continue topping the gourd with hot water to resteep the leaves until all the flavour is enjoyed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Yerba mate taste like?
Yerba mate is crisp, bold and herbaceous with a vegetal edge. Roasted yerba mate is more nutty and warm.
Does Yerba mate have caffeine?
Yes, it has a caffeine level similar to coffee, but it can be described as more gentle and bright.
Where can I buy Yerba mate?
You can find it at many online shops and tea retailers. It can also be blended with other ingredients so it’s common to find it as a tea blend. If you would like to try a traditional version, check out this Argentina Yerba Mate recommendation. (affiliate link)
Yerba Mate
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon yerba mate (loose leaf) or 1 tea bag
- 1 cup water under boiling (75-80 degrees Celsius or 160-175 degrees Fahrenheit)
- 1 teaspoon sweetener of choice optional
Instructions
Method 1: Using a Teapot or Infuser Mug
- To begin, pour warm water into your steeping vessel (teapot or mug), swirl it around carefully then discard. This will warm the teapot or mug which will help the herbal tea steep properly and retain heat.
- Add yerba mate to the warm teapot or infuser mug. Pour under boiling water over the leaves and steep for 3 to 5 minutes.
- If using a teapot without an infuser, pour the steeped tea into a cup over a strainer to catch the loose tea leaves. If using an infuser in the teapot or mug, remove the infuser basket when the steeping process is complete.
- If desired, add sweetener of your choice to the cup and stir until dissolved. Enjoy!
Method 2: Using a Gourd and Bombilla
- Fill the gourd about ½ full with yerba mate. Cover the top with your hand, flip the gourd upside down and shake gently. This helps move the smaller particles to the top.
- Tilt the gourd so all the yerba mate leaves rest on one side, forming a small slope
- Pour a splash of warm water (not hot) into the lower side to hydrate the leaves. Let them absorb.
- Insert the bombilla into the wet section and slowly add hot water to fill the gourd. Sip, enjoy and repeat! Traditional yerba mate is meant to be enjoyed through multiple refills. Therefore, you can continue topping the gourd with hot water to resteep the leaves until all the flavour is enjoyed.
Pregunto: porqué llaman TE a las plantas aromáticas? Son infusiones.
Great question! I believe it’s because although it is not true tea it is steeped in a similar way. Tea is a familiar term for many, too.