If you’re here, it’s probably because you’ve already heard about mate, seen someone drinking it, or simply feel curious about this unique beverage.
In this article, I’ll explain everything you need to know to start your journey into the world of mate: what it is, where it comes from and what you need to enjoy your first mate.
What is mate?
Mate is a traditional South American infusion prepared with dried yerba mate leaves and hot water. It is mainly consumed in Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, and southern Brazil, and it is becoming increasingly popular in Europe and around the world.
More than just a drink, mate is a social ritual: it is shared, enjoyed in groups, and accompanies conversations, work, travel, and moments of relaxation.
What does mate taste like?
The taste of mate can vary greatly depending on the type of yerba:
That’s why there are so many varieties: with stems, without stems, mild, flavored, for tereré, organic, and more. For beginners, it is always recommended to start with a mild yerba.
What do you need to drink mate?
To prepare traditional mate, you only need three things:
-
A mate gourd or cup (wood, steel, glass, or natural gourd)
-
A bombilla (the metal filtering straw)
-
Yerba mate
And of course, hot water (not boiling).
Ideal water temperature
The water should not boil. The ideal temperature is between 70 and 80 °C . If the water is too hot, the mate will taste overly bitter.
What is mate cocido?
Mate cocido is the teabag version of mate, similar to tea. It is prepared in a cup with hot water and is ideal for those who:
It’s a great gateway into the world of mate.
What is tereré?
Tereré is mate prepared with cold water or juice. It is very popular in Paraguay and during the summer. Special yerbas with mint, lemon, or refreshing herbs are commonly used. It’s the perfect drink for hot days.
Why start drinking mate?
Beyond its properties, mate has something special:
- It keeps you company
- It’s meant to be shared
- It adapts to every moment of the day
- It creates a personal ritual
It’s not just a drink — it’s a moment for yourself.
Final advice for beginners
If you’re just starting out:
There is no single “right” way to drink mate — everyone creates their own ritual.
Discover your first mate with Sol del Este
On soldeleste.com, you’ll find mild yerbas, mate cocido, beginner kits, and everything you need to start your mate journey the right way.
Shipping to France, the European Union, and Switzerland.
Introduction to Mate for Beginners: What it is and Why You Should Try It
If you’re here, it’s probably because you’ve already heard about mate, seen someone drinking it, or simply feel curious about this unique beverage.
In this article, I’ll explain everything you need to know to start your journey into the world of mate: what it is, where it comes from and what you need to enjoy your first mate.
What is mate?
Mate is a traditional South American infusion prepared with dried yerba mate leaves and hot water. It is mainly consumed in Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, and southern Brazil, and it is becoming increasingly popular in Europe and around the world.
More than just a drink, mate is a social ritual: it is shared, enjoyed in groups, and accompanies conversations, work, travel, and moments of relaxation.
What does mate taste like?
The taste of mate can vary greatly depending on the type of yerba:
It can be mild or intense
More or less bitter
With herbal, citrus or fruity notes
That’s why there are so many varieties: with stems, without stems, mild, flavored, for tereré, organic, and more. For beginners, it is always recommended to start with a mild yerba.
What do you need to drink mate?
To prepare traditional mate, you only need three things:
A mate gourd or cup (wood, steel, glass, or natural gourd)
A bombilla (the metal filtering straw)
Yerba mate
And of course, hot water (not boiling).
Ideal water temperature
The water should not boil. The ideal temperature is between 70 and 80 °C . If the water is too hot, the mate will taste overly bitter.
What is mate cocido?
Mate cocido is the teabag version of mate, similar to tea. It is prepared in a cup with hot water and is ideal for those who:
Don’t want to use a gourd and bombilla
Prefer a quicker and easier preparation
Enjoy milder infusions
It’s a great gateway into the world of mate.
What is tereré?
Tereré is mate prepared with cold water or juice. It is very popular in Paraguay and during the summer. Special yerbas with mint, lemon, or refreshing herbs are commonly used. It’s the perfect drink for hot days.
Why start drinking mate?
Beyond its properties, mate has something special:
- It keeps you company
- It’s meant to be shared
- It adapts to every moment of the day
- It creates a personal ritual
It’s not just a drink — it’s a moment for yourself.
Final advice for beginners
If you’re just starting out:
Choose a mild yerba
Don’t use boiling water
Take your time
Try different flavors until you find your favorite
There is no single “right” way to drink mate — everyone creates their own ritual.
Discover your first mate with Sol del Este
On soldeleste.com, you’ll find mild yerbas, mate cocido, beginner kits, and everything you need to start your mate journey the right way.
Shipping to France, the European Union, and Switzerland.