Yerba mate is a member of the holly family and unrelated to the black and green teas we commonly drink, though it actually contains more caffeine. It's traditionally brewed in a hollowed-out gourd cup and drunk through a straw with a filter on the end called a bombilla.
Yerba Mate: Yerba mate is consumed in many regions of South America as an integral part of social functions. It has a higher caffeine content than most teas, and many people find it gives a great energy boost without the jitters of coffee.
Ingredients: Yerba mate leaf and stem. Contains caffeine.
Brewing instructions: As loose leaf tea: Use 1-2 Tbsp per 8oz of 150-170 degree water. Steep 5 minutes or to taste.
Traditional method: Click here to watch the traditional Argentinian way of brewing yerba mate.
