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Mate Tea
Mate tea originates deep in the jungle of South America and was enjoyed by the South American Indians as a drink of the gods. Originally, only the traditional drinking vessel was referred to as "mate."The Guarani people called mate Caiguá, in Argentina it is known as Yerba, and in Brazil as Chimarrã. Whatever name it bears: mate tea is an extraordinary, invigorating and delicious drinking experience.
What is Mate Tea?
The South American natives prepared Mate tea from the leaves of the Mate tree, a plant in the holly family. After the discovery of America, Mate came to Europe - and its flavor and aroma quickly helped it to became a popular hot drink.
Mate tastes earthy, sweet, slightly bitter and fresh at the same time. Scientific studies have found it to contain 250 different components.
Mate tea is an excellent stimulant. It contains around 80 milligrams of caffeine per cup - only slightly less than coffee. However, the effect of the caffeine is enhanced by the presence of theobromine and theophylline.
Due to the tannins, the stimulating effect sets in somewhat more slowly than with coffee and lasts longer. Mate is therefore a popular ingredient in energy drinks.
In Germany, Mate is approved as a medicine, and is purported to suppress the appetite. It is said to be a diuretic with an effect on digestion, and is often used to help people lose weight.
It is also reported to have a positive effect on concentration and performance. Studies by the University of Illinois have found evidence that Mate tea has a preventative effect on colonic cancer.
Hot & Cold Beverages
To enjoy the Mate experience to the full, you will need high-quality Mate tea, and also the right accessories, to turn pleasure into an unforgettable ritual. Find selected cups, mugs other items here to enjoy your tea in style.
The right method of preparation
The traditional preparation of Mate tea can be a wonderful way to relax. The South Americans drank their Mate from hollowed-out gourds, known as calabashes. Even today, bulbous bowls made from pumpkin or wood are still used
.An important accessory for Mate tea is the bombilla, a drinking tube with a seive. The leaves remain in the liquid, and several infusions are prepared. The bombilla allows the Mate to be drunk without the leaves spoiling the taste.
The Mate cup is filled about halfway with leaves, and infused with water at 104 degrees Fahrenheit. It should be left to infuse for about two minutes and then more water added at 70 to 85 degrees.
Some people don't like the bitter taste of the first infusion and throw it away before making the second and third infusions.
Unlike green tea, Mate tea does not become bitter after a long infusion.
It is somewhat easier and more hygienic to drink Mate from porcelain tea cups. To do this, place a tea filter or a tea infuser with five spoonfuls of tea leaves in a teapot and add one liter of hot water. Leave to infuse for about three to five minutes.Two or three infusions are also possible when preparing tea in a teapot, and Mate tea is available in tea bags for convenience. Flavored varieties are also available: Mate flavored with cinnamon, peppermint or cherry is particularly popular in Argentina.
The difference between Mate tea and Matcha tea
Mate tea and matcha tea sound similar in name, although they are two completely different drinks.
While Mate tea is made from the Mate tree and comes from South America, Matcha is made from the tea plant and comes from China.
Mate tea leaves are relatively coarse. Matcha, on the other hand, is a fine green tea powder that dissolves completely in the tea.
Both are suitable for losing weight, but Mate is considered a more effective stimulant.
Green tea has more extensive health benefits, many of which have been scientifically proven. The two also differ considerably in taste. Which tea is your favorite - Mate tea or Matcha? It's worth trying both tea specialties find your favorite.