Traditional Argentine Mate Recipe

Enjoy a traditional Argentine drink made from yerba mate leaves. This beverage offers a caffeine boost and is rich in antioxidants, perfect for any time of day.
A wooden pestle in a round brown mortar on a white surface with herbs spilled next to it, against a neutral grey background, reminiscent of an Argentine Mate setup.
A round wooden bowl containing dried herbs, viewed from above, with a shadow cast on a white surface, evokes the essence of a traditional Argentine Mate recipe.

Traditional Argentine Mate Recipe

An asian woman smiling in front of a potted plant.Hannah Lee
Traditional Argentine drink made from yerba mate leaves, providing a caffeine boost and rich in antioxidants.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Meal Type Beverages
Cuisine Argentine
Servings 1
Difficulty Easy
Ingredient Cost $0.20
Shopping Cost$20

Equipment

  • Mate gourd
  • Bombilla (metal straw with a filter)
  • Kettle

Ingredients
 
 

  • 2 tablespoons yerba mate
  • water Hot, not boiling

Instructions
 

  • Fill the mate gourd halfway with yerba mate.
    2 tablespoons yerba mate
  • Tilt the gourd to one side, creating a slope of yerba.
  • Insert the bombilla into the slope.
  • Pour a small amount of hot water (not boiling) into the yerba mate to moisten it.
    water
  • Once the yerba mate absorbs the water, pour more hot water, filling the gourd.
  • Sip through the bombilla, adding more hot water as needed.

Notes

Do not use boiling water, as it can make the mate bitter.
Traditionally, mate is shared among friends or family, each taking turns to sip from the same gourd.
Keyword Argentine Drink, Traditional Beverage, Yerba Mate

Ingredient Costs: Cost of Recipe by Ingredient Measurements

Shopping Costs: Cost of Recipe with Brand New Ingredient Purchases

Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Mate is a traditional Argentine drink that embodies a comforting morning ritual and a rich cultural heritage. This herbal infusion, made from the leaves of the yerba mate plant, is known for its unique flavor and stimulating properties, offering a gentle caffeine boost to start the day. The preparation of mate is an art form, often involving a special gourd and bombilla (straw), which adds to the experience of enjoying this beverage. More than just a drink, mate symbolizes friendship and community in Argentina, as it is often shared among friends and family during gatherings. Each sip brings a sense of connection and warmth, making it a cherished part of daily life. The simple act of preparing and drinking mate provides a moment of calm before the day's chaos, inviting reflection and appreciation for tradition. Sharing this profound drink can bring a piece of Argentine culture into any home, allowing others to experience the joy and camaraderie that mate represents.

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