Yerba mate is more than just a drink — it’s a ritual, a moment of calm, a natural energy boost, and a way to connect with others. Whether you want to enjoy it the traditional way, try modern methods, or experiment with creative variations, this guide will show you exactly how to brew yerba mate step by step.
🌿 What You’ll Need
Traditional Way
- Yerba mate
- Calabash gourd
- Bombilla (filter straw)
- Hot water (70–80°C)
- Optional: Thermos or kettle with temperature control
Modern Way
- French press
- Tea infuser or mate bags
- Glass or mug
- Cold water & ice
- Fruits for flavoring
🧉 Method 1: Traditional Yerba Mate (Gourd & Bombilla)
- Fill the Gourd Halfway
Fill your gourd ½ to ⅔ full with yerba mate. More yerba = stronger mate. - Tilt & Shake
Cover the top with your hand, tilt the gourd sideways, and shake gently. You’ll see a small slope form — the classic montañita. This keeps the mate smooth and clog-free. - Insert the Bombilla
Place the bombilla on the lower side of the slope. Try not to move it after placement. - Moisten the Yerba
Pour a little cool or lukewarm water into the lower side. Wait 10–20 seconds for absorption. - Add Hot Water (70–80°C)
Pour near the bombilla, sip, and refill. You can refill a good mate 10–20 times.
🍃 Method 2: French Press Yerba Mate (Beginner-Friendly)
- Use 2–3 tablespoons of yerba per 250–300 ml water
- Steep in 70–80°C water for 3–5 minutes
- Press and serve
Smooth, clean, and ideal for beginners who want an easy start.
☕ Method 3: Tea Infuser or Mate Bags (Quick & Convenient)
- Add 1 tablespoon of yerba to an infuser
- Steep 3–4 minutes in 70–80°C water
- Drink like your favorite herbal tea
Super simple, clean, and fuss-free.
❄️ Method 4: Tereré (Iced Yerba Mate)
- Fill your cup with ice
- Add yerba mate (½ full)
- Pour cold water or juice
- Refill as many times as you like
Refreshing, hydrating, and perfect for hot days.
🌬️ Method 5: Cold-Brew Yerba Mate (10–20 Minutes)
Cold-brew mate is refreshing, easy, and smooth — no hot water needed.
- Add Yerba Mate – 2–3 tablespoons per 300 ml water
- Pour Cold or Room-Temperature Water – use a glass jar or bottle
- Let It Infuse – 10–20 minutes
- Add Fruits (Optional) – lemon, orange, berries, mint, cucumber
- Strain & Serve Over Ice – or drink with a bombilla.
Perfect for summer or long work sessions. 🌞
🥛 BONUS RECIPE 1: Roasted Mate with Warm Milk
Roasted yerba mate (mate cocido tostado) + warm milk = nutty, chocolatey, comforting drink.
Ingredients:
- Roasted yerba mate
- Calabash gourd & bombilla
- Warm milk (60–70°C)
Steps:
- Prepare the gourd traditionally (fill, tilt, shake)
- Moisten yerba with a splash of lukewarm milk
- Insert bombilla
- Pour warm milk near the straw
- Sip & refill
✨ Result: Aromatic, creamy, cozy — perfect for mornings or dessert.
🔥 BONUS RECIPE 2: Yerba Mate Latte (Modern Café Style)
- Brew yerba in a French press
- Froth milk or plant milk
- Combine & sweeten with honey or vanilla
Creamy, energizing, and delicious.
🌟 Tips for the Best Yerba Mate Experience
- Use quality yerba (organic, smooth, or green for beginners)
- Never pour boiling water
- Keep the bombilla still once placed
- Experiment with mint, ginger, lemon, or fruits
- Store yerba in a cool, dry place away from sunlight
🛒 Ready to Start Your Yerba Mate Journey?
Explore top-quality yerbas, accessories, and starter kits at:
👉 Enisay.eu – Shop Yerba Mate
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