Ilex Paraguariensis: the plant behind yerba mate

What is Materos Unidos?

In short, a yerba mate brand startup aiming to make this drink more accessible outside of South America.

The word matero means someone who is passionate about yerba mate, and "unidos" means united.

So basically people who love mate that are united  ❤️🧉

What is yerba mate?

The Spanish pronounciation is yerba ("yer-ba", or in 🇦🇷&🇺🇾  "sher-ba") mate ("ma-te")

Ilex paraguariensis or yerba mate is a plant native to South America, particularly in regions encompassing Paraguay, Uruguay, Argentina, and Brazil. It boasts a rich history deeply intertwined with the cultures of these areas.

The journey of yerba mate begins with the careful collection and drying of its leaves, ultimately transforming them into the beloved drink.

Yerba mate has a fascinating ritual associated with its preparation and consumption. The traditional method involves using a bombilla, a unique metal straw with a built-in filter, allowing people to sip the mate infusion without ingesting the leaves. This artful process adds an element of craftsmanship to each mate experience, making it an intricate part of the culture it represents.

Indigenous tribes like the Guaraní and Tupi were among the first to appreciate its invigorating effects, incorporating it into their daily lives and ceremonies. With the arrival of Spanish and Portuguese colonizers, yerba mate's popularity soared as colonizers were captivated by its stimulating properties.

This adoption led to its integration into South American life, enjoyed by people from all walks of life. Additionally, yerba mate found its way to the Middle East, notably in Lebanon, Syria, and various other regions. Here, it is commonly consumed, particularly by Druze and Alawite communities, further highlighting its global appeal and cultural significance.

Why Yerba mate?

1. Natural Energy Boost: Yerba mate contains caffeine, which can provide a mild and sustained energy lift, often without the edginess associated with coffee.
2. Mood Enhancement: Some people find that yerba mate offers a sense of alertness and relaxation, making it a pleasant choice for those seeking a subtle mood boost.
3. Cultural Experience: Trying yerba mate allows you to partake in the rich cultural traditions of South America, where sharing mate is a cherished social practice.
4. Unique Flavor: Yerba mate boasts a distinctive earthy taste, setting it apart from other beverages and offering a unique flavor experience.
5. Versatility: Yerba mate can be enjoyed in various forms, such as traditional mate, terere (iced mate), or even as an ingredient in culinary creations, adding versatility to your beverage options.
6. Rich History: Yerba mate has a fascinating history deeply intertwined with the cultures of South America, making it an interesting and culturally enriching exploration.
7. Nutritional Value: Yerba mate is rich inessential micronutrients derived from the leaves and herbs, adding a nutritional aspect to your exploration, all without any pressure to pursue it for specific health claims
   

How to make yerba mate?

Yerba Mate Cocido:

1. Boil water to a temperature of around 70-80°C (160-180°F).
2. Place 1-2 tablespoons of dried yerba mate leaves in a teapot or cup.
3. Pour the hot water over the yerba mate leaves.
4. Allow the mixture to steep for 5-10 minutes, depending on your desired strength.
5. Strain the liquid into cups, using a fine mesh strainer or tea infuser.
6. Add sweeteners like sugar or honey if desired.
7. Enjoy the warm and soothing yerba mate cocido.

Tereré:

1. Fill a large container with ice-cold water.
2. Add around 3-4 tablespoons of dried yerba mate leaves to a mate cup (a glass cup could work)
3. Tilt the cup to one side and fill it with cold water.
4. Insert the filtered end of the bombilla (metal straw) into the leaves, creating a filter.
5. Gently pour cold water into the mate cup, letting it infuse with the leaves.
6. Optionally, you can add citrus or berry juice for extra flavor.
7. Sip through the bombilla and enjoy the refreshing and invigorating tereré.
   

Traditional Yerba Mate:

1. Fill a mate cup (calabaza) with about two-thirds of dried yerba mate leaves.
2. Tilt the mate cup to one side to create a slope of yerba mate along one edge.
3. Insert the bombilla (metal straw) into the slope, ensuring it touches the leaves.
4. Gently pour hot water (70-80°C or 160-180°F) into the empty side of the mate cup, allowing it to soak into the leaves.
5. Sip through the bombilla, re-infusing with water as needed.
6. Pass the mate cup to others in a clockwise direction, fostering a sense of togetherness and community.