HOW TO PREPARE AN ARGENTINE MATE CLASSIC

Mate is a traditional Argentine drink that consists of an infusion of yerba mate and water. It has its origins with the native Guarani who used the leaves of yerba mate as a drink, an object of worship and as an exchange currency in exchange with other peoples. The yerba mate tree was believed to be a gift from the gods

The ancient conquerors learned from the Guarani, the uses and great virtues of yerba mate and were responsible for spreading their consumption from their place of origin to the entire Viceroyalty of the Rio de la Plata.

Currently, Argentina is the main producer of yerba mate in the world, reaching an incredible 780,000 tons of mate green leaf only in 2017 with a cultivation area of ​​approximately 165,200 hectares. The yerba mate tree grows mainly in the province of Misiones and northwest of Corrientes.

HOW TO PREPARE INFUSION

STEP N ° 1: Heat water. Then place it in a thermos. Keep in mind that the water should not boil, but that the proper temperature is about 70 to 80 ° C.

Many people use an electric kettle to regulate the water at the correct temperature, in case of not having a boil the water and let it cool for about 5 minutes before preparing the mate. Since the water at its maximum temperature burns the yerba and alters the flavor of the infusion.

STEP 2: Place yerba in the container filling ¾ of its entirety with it. Then place your hand on the container, flip it over and shake it to remove excess dust that may be present.

NOTE: THE CLASSIC MATE TAKES AMARGO, BUT MANY PEOPLE LIKE SWEET. PLACE 1 OR 2 SPOONS OF SUGAR BEFORE STARTING THIS STEP

Step N ° 3: Introduce the bulb and pour the water slowly until the yerba absorbs all the water to the top of the container.

There are many things that can be added to the mate, such as mint leaves, pieces of dried orange peel, linden leaves among others. That is placed at the person's pleasure and is not mandatory.

STEP # 4: Enjoy mate with friends and family, as it is a great excuse to share beautiful and beautiful moments with loved ones.