- Joel Muñoz
- Apr 9
- 2 min read
How to prepare a good mate
To prepare a good mate, fill the container three-quarters full with yerba mate, shake it to distribute it evenly, and moisten one side with warm water. Insert the bombilla into that area and slowly pour hot water (70-80°C) into the same area. The result will be a foamy, rich infusion, perfect for enjoying the full flavor of yerba mate. Enjoy the full flavor with a Taragüi mate in your hand.
The process of preparing or "cebar" a mate involves a series of techniques and tricks to achieve the best results. Yerba mate sommelier Valeria Trapaga explains everything you need to know to do it like a pro.
The quality of the yerba mate
The first step is to use a good quality yerba mate for our mate, as this will largely determine its flavor, texture, and aroma. We can recognize a good yerba mate using our five senses: It should have a yellowish-green color and a balance of powder, leaf, and stem; it should have a dry texture and emit a slight crunch; its aroma should be fresh and slightly toasted, while the flavor should have a slight hint of bitterness.
A well-cured mate
When the mate gourd is properly cured, it is able to absorb the properties of the yerba and transfer its flavors. Therefore, before starting to prepare the drink, it is important to ensure that the mate we use is appropriate (it should have a narrow base and a wide mouth) and that it is well cured.
How to cure it? Fill the mate with yerba mate, then add hot water and let it steep overnight. In the morning, scrape all the edges with a spoon and remove the woody stem. If necessary, repeat this process until it is completely clean and then let it dry in the sun.
Steps to prepare the perfect mate
1. Fill the mate cup three-quarters full with yerba mate.
2. Turn the container upside down and shake vigorously to ensure all the ingredients are mixed and distributed evenly.
3. Slowly bring the mate cup back to its original position, making sure the yerba mate is tilted at a 45° angle, forming a sort of hole. Pour a small amount of warm water through this to moisten the lower part.
4. Insert the bombilla into the lower part, pressing it against the inner wall of the mate cup and trying not to move it further.
5. Heat the water to between 70°C and 80°C. Add the water gradually toward the side of the mate where the bombilla is located.
Ready! The result will be a foamy, rich infusion, with the delicious flavor of the yerba that will last much longer.