How to prepare a yerba mate?

An infusion of an Amazonian botanical plant species, served for centuries in South America, with stimulant effects similar to tea or coffee (contains caffeine). Mate is traditionally prepared in a calabash gourd and sipped from a metal straw called a bombilla, but at DAMMANN Frères it can also be prepared by simply infusing the leaves in a tea filter and leaving to brew for 5 minutes in boiling water.

Mate is traditionally prepared in a calabash gourd and sipped from a metal straw called a bombilla. Three quarters of the calabash is filled with yerba mate. The opening is then covered with the hand and the gourd turned upside down and shaken gently to collect the fine dust in the palm of the hand, which is then thrown away as elegantly as possible. The calabash is then tipped slightly on its side and a little cold water poured into the bottom without touching the upper part. It is then returned to an upright position and left to steep for 2 minutes. Finally, water heated to 212°F is added and the mate is ready to serve. Our mate can be prepared following this method or simply by infusing the leaves with a filter for 5 minutes.