My brilliant entrepreneur husband has recently launched his own e-commerce store selling yerba mate. Before meeting him, I had never encountered mate, but I quickly discovered its significance in Argentine culture. In tribute to this beloved drink of my husband, here’s everything you need to know about mate culture.
While Argentine culture borrows heavily from European traditions—such as a fondness for coffee, gelato, and pizza—the consumption of mate (pronounced mah-tay) is a distinctively South American practice.
In a way similar to how tea is enjoyed by the British, mate holds a special place in Argentina, perhaps even more so. Argentinians drink mate throughout the day, whether alone or, more commonly, in social settings. Family gatherings, afternoon conversations, and casual meet-ups often revolve around sharing mate. Couples frequently bring mate to parks for a romantic outing. Even during our time in Montanita, Ecuador, we would often see groups of Argentinians enjoying the beach while sharing a mate cup and thermoses filled with hot water.
At home in the U.S., my husband and mother-in-law regularly share a cup of mate when we visit. The tea and the ritual surrounding it are vital for bonding, enduring even in rural Pennsylvania.
What is Mate?
Mate is a tea-like beverage crafted from the stems and leaves of the yerba mate plant. The leaves are packed with caffeine and other natural stimulants, offering various health benefits. It’s said to enhance focus, increase energy, and even aid in weight management (Argentinians tend to be quite slim despite their diet of red meat and ice cream, which makes this claim more believable).
Mate can be served hot in the traditional way, in tea bags, or even cold, resembling iced tea. Its flavor is akin to a very bitter green tea, which some may find takes a bit of getting used to.
The Equipment
While many people drink mate on the go from a thermos, the traditional method involves using a special cup called a gourd.
The gourd serves as a communal cup (there’s no need to worry about germs among friends!). Traditionally, the gourd is a vegetable shell, although it may also be made of metal or plastic. The owner customizes the inside to give it a unique flavor. Mate is sipped through a silver straw, known as a bombilla, which has a filter at the end.
The Ritual
Drinking mate has roots dating back to pre-Columbian times. With such a longstanding tradition comes a set of unspoken customs and rules. Violating these norms may come off as rude or uninformed. So, if you want to enjoy mate like a true Argentinean, here’s what you should know.
Mate is a collective experience. Participants sit in a circle, and one designated person, known as the cebador, prepares the mate with hot water and, in Buenos Aires, possibly sugar (there’s a notable sweet tooth there). The gourd is then passed around the circle clockwise, with each person sipping from it before returning it to the cebador to be re-brewed. This process continues until the hot water runs out.
The Rules
The most crucial rule when drinking mate is to NEVER TOUCH THE BOMBILLA. Adjusting or moving the straw in any way is considered very impolite.
When you receive the mate, only let your lips touch the bombilla. Sip until there’s no liquid left; the straw will make a slurping sound. Since the water is quite hot, you don’t need to rush, but don’t take too long either—you don’t want to hog the mate! Once finished, return the gourd to the cebador.
Argentinians can consume a substantial amount of mate. While I avoid caffeinated beverages after 5 PM, it’s common for people in Argentina to drink large quantities of mate right before bedtime (it’s worth noting they often stay up late, so perhaps there’s a connection). If you’ve had enough, a simple “thank you” to the server indicates you’re done. Even if you’re not a fan, it’s polite to at least accept one serving when offered.
Although it may sound intricate, drinking mate is a laid-back activity woven into everyday life, not requiring excessive thought. Don’t stress too much about it and definitely seek out an opportunity to partake in one of Argentina’s most cherished traditions.
Eager to try yerba mate yourself but reside in the U.S.? Check out Mike’s online store, Matero, to find everything you need to begin your journey.
