Known by native indigenous cultures of South America as “The Drink of the Gods,” yerba mate has etched its way into North American culture and attracted attention for its array of health benefits. Enjoyed hot or iced, yerba mate is a way of life shared amongst friends in South America...and now your home as well.
A fortifying remedy from South America, Yerba Mate (Ilex paraguariensis) has matteine, a substance similar to caffeine in the way that it interacts with the body. Yerba Mate is enjoyed for enhanced energy, physical protection and taste. With notes of eucalyptus and cedarwood, it’s an earthy taste that is wonderful with honey or lemon. Plus yerba mate offers matteine, which gives the energy of caffeine and wakes up the mind without the nervous jittery feeling. While coffee is the go-to of choice for a morning start or an afternoon pick-me-up in North America, South Americans reach for their yerba mate.
In this first video, Sarah demonstrates how to steep loose-leaf yerba mate at home.
To make your iced yerba mate, you'll steep your yerba mate the same way, but once it's strained in your cup, simply pour it very slowly over a glass of ice. For an Arnold Palmer-style iced yerba mate, add limeade and top it off with a twist of lemon or lime. Perfect for a poolside treat or a summer evening dinner party with friends, Sarah demonstrates how easy it is to enjoy this cool and refreshing beverage at home:
1. Steep 1-2 teaspoons (2-4 grams) of Yerba Mate in 1 cup (8oz) of 175-degree water (about 5 minutes off the boil) for 4-5 minutes.
2. Strain and add honey and/or lemon or lime to taste!
Yerba mate is easy to make at home, and the process is even more fun and authentic if you enjoy your yerba in a traditional gourd and bombilla. In true matero fashion, use a bombilla, a bamboo straw, to sip as the herb steeps. Refill with hot water as desired!