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Showing posts from June, 2024

What is Mate made of?

Natural Mate's As their name suggests, these are made from natural materials, so it's important to cure them before their first use . Let's review the types of mates or gourds of this kind available on the market. Wooden Mate   The wooden mate can be made from palo santo, oak, carob, caldén, orange, or quebracho. Like other mates made from natural materials, it must be cured, but I'll tell you more about that in another article on how to cure a wooden mate. There are different types of wooden mates, and I advise you to choose one made from hard material, such as carob, and to ask for those that do not contain aromatic traces so they do not interfere with the taste of the yerba mate. Gourd Mate  This is the most commonly used type of mate among consumers of this infusion, and the Guarani already used this material to make their mates when they discovered Ilex Paraguariensis. There are different shapes ("torpedo," "galleta" or "colonial," ...

Mate in Everyday Life

  In Argentina, mate is an essential companion in the daily routine of many people, both at work and during study sessions. Its stimulating properties help maintain focus and energy levels throughout the day. Additionally, the ritual of preparing and sharing mate provides a welcome break, fostering a sense of camaraderie among colleagues and classmates. It is common to see a mate gourd being passed around during meetings or study groups, creating a collaborative and friendly atmosphere. Events and Gatherings Mate holds a special place in social, family, and cultural events. Whether it's a casual get-together with friends, a family reunion, or a cultural celebration, mate is often at the center of these gatherings. Sharing mate symbolizes unity and inclusion, making it an essential element in both small and large events. From picnics in the park to traditional festivals, the presence of mate is a testament to its enduring role in Argentine social life. A Tradition That Strengthens B...

The Types of Mate: A Tradition that Evolves

  Mate is much more than just a beverage in Argentina; it's a cultural tradition, a social ritual, and a symbol of friendship. With a history that dates back to indigenous peoples, mate has evolved into a variety of forms, each with its own flavor and preparation method. Here, we explore some of the most popular types of mate consumed in Argentina and other parts of South America. Bitter Mate (Mate Amargo) Mate amargo is the most traditionally consumed style. It is prepared solely with yerba mate and hot water, characterized by its strong and bitter flavor. To prepare it, fill the mate (container) with yerba up to 2/3 of its capacity, insert the bombilla (metal straw), and add hot water, never boiling, in small amounts. This is the purest way to enjoy mate, reflecting the authenticity of this ancient tradition. Sweet Mate (Mate Dulce) For those who prefer a milder taste, mate dulce is an excellent option. Similar to mate amargo but with the addition of sugar, honey, or sweeteners, ...

How to prepare mate: The science behind a tradition

  Traditional Argentine Mate Recipe Although yerba mate is very versatile, both in its preparation and its various health benefits, in its classic form it is consumed hot and bitter. This is the preferred way of drinking it in Argentina, and it’s no wonder that Argentina is the world's largest producer of yerba mate and one of its main consumers: 9 out of 10 Argentines drink mate. In its traditional version, yerba mate infusion is taken hot and bitter, the best way to enjoy its unique flavor and take advantage of its magnificent properties. This infusion is always based on yerba mate leaves, which have undergone a drying and aging process that gives them their characteristic bitter taste. In Argentina and other mate regions, the water is usually hot (not boiling), and the original bitterness of the yerba is usually respected; however, there are many options to customize it later according to your preferences. What do we need to prepare traditional mate? A mate (container), a bombil...

Mate: The Drink Taking the World by Storm

Mate, a traditional infusion from Argentina, has started to attract the attention and interest of people all around the world. But what exactly is mate? and why is it becoming so popular in the world? What is Mate? Mate is a drink made from the dried and crushed leaves of the yerba mate plant. These leaves are placed in a special container (also called a mate), and hot water is added. It is drunk through a bombilla, a metal straw with a filter at the base to prevent the leaves from being sucked up. History and Tradition Mate has deep roots in Argentine culture and other countries in the Southern Cone, such as Uruguay, Paraguay, and parts of Brazil. Originally consumed by the indigenous Guaraní communities, mate has become a symbol of hospitality and friendship. The ceremony of sharing a mate is a social ritual that promotes connection and conversation. Health Benefits One of the main factors driving the global popularity of mate is its nutritional profile. Yerba mate is rich in antioxi...