Infusion time and preparation: how to brew maté properly?

Maté is prized for its multiple infusions, as it can be re-infused several times while retaining its high caffeine content. Choose a high-quality product to fully enjoy this energising and invigorating drink, ideal for starting the day or sharing with friends.

It is generally prepared by pouring hot water over the leaves and can be enjoyed in a simple mug. Using a filter holds back fine particles so you can fully enjoy the infusion.

Traditional yerba maté preparation in 5 steps

To follow the traditional method of preparing maté, you will need a calabash and a bombilla. In Argentina, the calabash is a dried, hollow gourd used as a drinking vessel. Wooden maté gourds are also available in various shapes. The bombilla serves as a filtering straw.

This drink allows for multiple infusions, extending the tasting experience. Whether enjoyed plain or enhanced with extra flavours, maté holds an important place in daily routines, offering a stimulating alternative to drinks like coffee while staying true to its traditional roots. The walls of the vessel distribute heat evenly, creating a comforting drink that awakens the senses.

To measure the leaves accurately, a spoon is used to ensure an intensity tailored to individual tastes. Choosing a good maté product is essential for a drink rich in flavour and benefits. Whether enjoyed daily or occasionally, maté remains a stimulating alternative to other hot drinks thanks to its natural properties and simple preparation.

Discover below the 5 steps to prepare your best maté, along with tips on brewing time!

1. Cure the calabash

Place the maté leaves in the vessel, add hot water and leave to infuse overnight. The next day, pour out the water and collect the leaves to dry them. Scrape the bottom of the calabash with a spoon to remove any residue. Leave it to dry upside down.

2. Fill it with yerba maté leaves

Fill the calabash ¾ full with yerba maté, then shake it while covering the top with your hand. Discard the powdery residue collected.

3. Let the leaves infuse

Tilt the calabash to one side to form a well, then add cold water. Let it infuse for 5 minutes.

4. Insert the bombilla

Place the bombilla at the bottom of the well and pack the leaves down. Do not move your filter again.

5. Pour the hot water and enjoy your drink

Pour hot water, between 70°C and 80°C, through the bombilla. Be careful not to use boiling water, as this risks burning the leaves. Let it infuse for 5 to 10 minutes. All that's left is to savour your maté through the bombilla straw throughout the day! The infusion time naturally depends on how strong you want your drink.

Good to know: the hotter the water, the more bitter your maté will be. That is why it is recommended not to serve it boiling.

What if I want to prepare yerba maté differently? Our preparation ideas

You can prepare high-quality maté in original ways. Here are a few ideas!

Maté cocido

Fancy drinking maté the Spanish way? It's simple: just prepare it like classic tea, using a strainer or tea infuser.

The little extra:

Moisten the maté with cold water to lock in all its aromas. Then pour in the hot water and leave to infuse for 5 minutes.

Gringo style

Here’s a stylish method! It combines the traditional and Spanish preparation styles:

• Pour the maté into a large mug;
• Add cold water;
• Insert the bombilla;
• Top up with hot water;
• Leave to infuse for 8 minutes.

Maté tereré

The refreshing version for a Paraguayan summer awaits you:

• Place 4 spoonfuls of maté into a French press;
• Pour in 1 litre of simmering water;
• Infuse for 5 to 8 minutes;
• Strain and let the drink cool down;
• Add lemon juice or honey for flavour and enjoy!

Brewing a delicious yerba maté while preserving all its aromas is easy! Get creative by varying your methods, but above all, be sure to respect the infusion time and water temperature. Enjoy it hot or cold to suit your mood! Nothing goes to waste with maté—it can be re-infused all day long. A wonderful way to mix things up and replace tea or coffee while enjoying the many benefits of this plant. So, ready for a trip to Argentina?