MATE
Mate is an infusion made from toasted Yerba Mate leaves, prepared by putting them in a gourd or "mate" with hot water and sugar, and sipped with a straw-like filter ("bombilla"), usually made of silver.
Mate is in use in very house all day long, and the compliment of the country is to hand the mate-cup to every visitor, the same cup and tube serving for all, and an attendant being kept in waiting to replenish for each person.
Throughout the provinces, the weary traveller, let him stop at what hovel sorver he may, is sure to be presented with the hospitable mate-cup, which, unless his prejudices are very strong indeed, will be found a great refreshment. (Emeric Essex Vidal) 1820

INSTRUCTIONS TO PREPARE OR "CEBAR" A GOOD MATE
The instructions below may be used for any kind of mate (whether made of gourd, wood, horn, ceramic, china, pottery, metal or even plastic).

BITTER Mate:
- Fill the mate-gourd two thirds full of yerba.
- Cover the top of the mate with your hand and gently shake it upside-down. This is to bring the smallest yerba particles to the top of the mate.
- Turn it back over carefully on its side. Try to keep the yerba inclined along one side. Then pour a little lukewarm water on the emptiest part of the mate and let it soak into the yerba. Repeat this step using hotter water, and allow it to sit again. Insert the straw to the bottom and in the same emptiest side of the mate.
Now you can begin preparing mate with near, but never quite, boiling water.

See our wide variety in mates of: Gourd, German Nickel, Wood and bombillas