OliveNation's Perfect Cup of Mate

Yerba Mate is traditionally served with a metal straw (bombilla) from a shared hollow calabash gourd. Whether brewed traditionally in a mate gourd, steeped like tea, or even brewed like coffee in a French press or an espresso maker, there are many ways Mate can be enjoyed.

We brew it like other types of infusions or teas: Rinse the Yerba Mate with cool water before brewing Place 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of Mate in a strainer on top of your mug (or in a tea ball or sachet). Add hot water (160–180 °F) to the mug.

Steep for at least 5 minutes. Remove the Mate and enjoy.

Mate can be sweetened with juices, sugars and different types of milk, according to your taste.

More water can be added to infuse the Mate several times.

Photo courtesy of www.sciencedaily.com