Have you ever heard of yerba mate , the mysterious drink of South America, which is called the āgreen golden elixir of the godsā ? š¤© This time we will travel together to where it all began ā to the mysterious forests of Paraguay, where this drink was revered as a gift of nature centuries ago. Prepare a cup of your favorite tea, because this story will warm your imagination (and heart)! š
The legend of the origin of yerba mate šāØ
Legend has it that the moon goddess š and the cloud goddess visited Earth one day. During their journey, they were attacked by a wild jaguar š, but were saved by a kind old man from the GuaranĆ tribe. To thank him for his courage and hospitality, the moon goddess gave him a sacred plant ā yerba mate.
She explained to him how to make a drink from its leaves that would give people energy, health, and joy. Since then, mate has been considered a symbol of friendship and community, as it is traditionally drunk in a circle ā one cup, one straw, one community. š«
Why is yerba mate so exciting to the world? š
Yerba mate is not just a drink ā it is an experience . Those who drink it swear by its invigorating effect and beneficial properties. Here are some reasons why yerba mate is so special:
ā¢ Natural source of energy ā” : Contains caffeine, but works more gently than coffee - without a quick energy drop. Ideal for those who want long-lasting concentration and focus. š§
ā¢ The healing power of nature šæ : Full of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals that strengthen the immune system and improve well-being.
ā¢ Ritual of connection š¤ : Mate is traditionally drunk from a calabash using a bombilla straw . It is a real little ritual that symbolizes community and friendship.
Mate Through Time: From the GuaranĆ Tribes to Your Cup
For the indigenous people, mate was more than just a drink ā it was a key part of their culture, healing and spiritual rituals. Over the centuries, yerba mate has conquered even wider regions ā from Argentinean cafĆ©s to European cities. Today, it is considered the drink of modern nomads, athletes and anyone looking for a healthy way to invigorate their body and mind. šļøšŖ
Recipes for different styles of yerba mate tea! šµ
Since every nation has its own way of preparing it, we have prepared three basic recipes for you so you can choose your favorite:
1. Traditional mate (Argentina) š¦š·
ā¢ Pour 2/3 of the yerba mate into the calabash .
ā¢ Tilt the container slightly to spread the leaves to one side.
ā¢ Add lukewarm water (not hot!) to the bottom to soak the leaves.
ā¢ Then add hot water (approximately 70ā80Ā°C) and enjoy through a bombilla straw .
š„ Tip : Top up your drink several times and share it with your loved ones.
2. Cold tererĆ© (Paraguay) šµš¾
ā¢ Place 2/3 of the yerba mate in a bowl or glass.
ā¢ Add cold water or even ice.
ā¢ If desired, add lime, orange slices or mint leaves for freshness.
ā¢ Drink slowly through a bombilla straw or with a mesh straw.
āļø Refreshing tip : Ideal for hot summer days!
3. Brazilian chimarrĆ£o (Brazil) š§š·
ā¢ Use finely ground Brazilian yerba mate.
ā¢ Pour the yerba mate into a bowl ( cuia ), tilt it slightly and add lukewarm water to one side.
ā¢ Make a small indentation at the top and add hot water (70ā80 Ā°C).
ā¢ Insert the bombilla straw into the side where there is less yerba and enjoy the intense flavor.
š Brazilian Charm : This version is extremely aromatic and full of distinctive flavors.
āØ May the power of nature and the tradition of yerba mate accompany you this week! šæ
Brew a cup, invite your friends, and take a moment to enjoy a ritual that has connected people for centuries.