Mate from Brazil.
Mate tea, also called yerba mate, is a traditional South American beverage made from the dried leaves of the yerba mate plant (Ilex paraguariensis). It is a holly tree native to the subtropical rainforests of South America. The leaves are brewed in hot water to create a stimulating and energizing drink. Mate tea is similar to green tea or coffee in its caffeine content, but it also contains other beneficial compounds like theobromine and theophylline, which can contribute to increased focus and alertness.
Mate tea is most commonly enjoyed in Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay, and southern Brazil. It is typically consumed from a gourd (mate) through a metal straw (bombilla). The gourd can be made from a calabash gourd, a cattle horn, or even metal or wood. The bombilla filters out the leaves while allowing the drinker to sip the tea.
5-10 minutes brewing time
100° C water temperature
4-5 heaped tsp./1 litre
