How To Drink Mate From A Gourd

Mate, a traditional South American drink, is often enjoyed from a gourd. If you're new to this unique beverage, you may be wondering how to properly drink it from a gourd. Don't worry, I've got you covered! Here's a step-by-step guide on how to drink mate from a gourd.

What You’ll Need

Before we get started, let’s gather the necessary supplies:

• A mate gourd
• A bombilla (a special metal straw with a filter at the bottom)
• Loose-leaf yerba mate
• Hot water

Preparing the Gourd

First, it’s important to prepare the mate gourd before you can start drinking. Follow these steps:

1. Fill the gourd with loose-leaf yerba mate, filling it about two-thirds of the way full.
2. Tilt the gourd to one side and gently shake it to allow the finer particles to gather near the opening of the gourd.
3. Insert the bombilla into the yerba mate, placing it at a slight angle to create a slope within the gourd.

Adding Hot Water

Once the gourd is prepared, it’s time to add hot water. Here’s what to do:

1. Heat the water to around 160–180°F (70–85°C). Avoid using boiling water, as it can make the mate taste bitter.
2. Pour a small amount of hot water into the gourd, allowing the yerba mate to absorb it.
3. Insert the bombilla and sip the mate through it. Refill the gourd with hot water as needed for multiple servings.

Drinking Etiquette

When drinking mate from a gourd, it’s important to observe some traditional etiquette:

• Wait for the cebador (the person preparing the mate) to hand you the gourd before taking a sip.
• Drink the entire serving in one go and avoid moving the bombilla around or stirring the mate.
• Pass the gourd back to the cebador, who will then refill it and pass it to the next person in the group.

Cleaning the Gourd

After you’ve finished drinking mate, it’s essential to clean the gourd properly to maintain its quality. Follow these steps:

1. Empty the used yerba mate from the gourd and rinse it with warm water.
2. Gently scrub the inside of the gourd with a soft brush to remove any remaining residue.
3. Allow the gourd to air dry completely before using it again.

Now that you know how to drink mate from a gourd, you can fully enjoy this beloved South American tradition. Whether you're sipping mate with friends or savoring it on your own, following these steps will ensure an authentic and enjoyable experience. Cheers to your new mate-drinking skills!