What is it?
From Wikipedia Yerba mate or yerba-maté (Ilex paraguariensis), from Spanish; Portuguese: erva-mate, Guarani: ka’a, is a plant species of the holly genus Ilex native to South America.
The indigenous Guaraní communities in southern Brazil first cultivated and used yerba mate prior to European colonization of the Americas. The leaves of the plant are steeped in hot water to make a beverage known as mate. When served cold, it is called tereré in the Guarani language. Both the plant and the beverage contain caffeine.
Where to buy in Europe
- https://urushop.co.uk/
- https://un-mate.eu/ (expensive!!)
Mixes I have done at home
- Guaraná, Katuava and Mate = For days you are dying and need a kick
- Sencha and Mate = very good taste
- Chamomile and Mate = A caffeined relaxed day 😉
Brands
Limited Edition Yerba Mate La Merced Campo & Monte- Sweet and light flavour, almost does not seem like a Mate.La Merced - Barbacuá-Very good Argentinian mate, smokey flavour. (will buy more)Kurupi Energy with Katuava- Very strong taste, it’s okay, but impossible to drink without mixing with another mateKurupi Energy con Ginseng, Cedrón Y Katuava- AMAZING taste. I believe mainly due to Cedrón. (will buy more)Erva Mate Barão Tradicional Original 1kg Chimarrão- Brasilian style, smokey flavour (will buy more)Cruz de Malta Yerba Mate- Strong flavour (bitter than what I’m used to), good and cheapOrganic Yerba Mate Kraus Gourmet Premium- I missed the smokey taste while drinking it, has a very smooth flavour. Good if it’s the first time you are drinking it. But I will not buy this one again.
Variations
- Matte Leão
- Amanda mate cocido