Yerba mate, a beloved South American beverage, has gained popularity worldwide for its unique flavor and invigorating effects. This traditional drink is often enjoyed in a gourd with a metal straw called a bombilla, but there are alternative methods to prepare yerba mate. One of these methods is using a French press, a tool typically associated with brewing coffee. Here, we’ll guide you through the steps of making a delightful cup of yerba mate using a French press.

What is Yerba Mate?

Before we dive into the brewing process, let’s take a moment to appreciate what yerba mate is. Yerba mate is a type of herbal tea made from the leaves of the Ilex paraguariensis plant, primarily grown in South America, particularly in countries like Argentina, Uruguay, and Paraguay. It’s known for its earthy, grassy, and slightly bitter flavor, as well as its ability to provide a gentle caffeine boost and a sense of alertness without the jittery side effects often associated with coffee.

Why Use a French Press for Yerba Mate?

While the traditional way of consuming yerba mate involves a gourd and bombilla, using a French press is a practical and versatile approach for those who want to enjoy mate without investing in special equipment. A French press allows for easy preparation and a clean, convenient way to enjoy yerba mate.

Ingredients and Equipment:

To make yerba mate in a French press, you’ll need:

  1. Yerba mate leaves or yerba mate tea bags
  2. A French press
  3. Fresh hot water
  4. Optional sweeteners, special herbs, or spices like sugar, honey, lemon, or mint (to taste)

Steps to Brew Yerba Mate in a French Press:

  1. Measure Your Yerba Mate: Start by measuring the desired amount of yerba mate leaves. A general guideline is about 15-30 ml (1-2 tablespoons) of yerba mate per 240 ml (8 ounces) of water, but you can adjust this to suit your taste preferences. If using yerba mate tea bags, use one bag for a 240 ml (8-ounce) cup.

  2. Preheat the French Press: To keep your yerba mate hot for a longer time, preheat your French press by pouring hot water into it. After a minute or so, discard the water.

  3. Add Yerba Mate: Place the yerba mate leaves or yerba mate tea bag into the French press.

  4. Boil Water: Bring fresh water to a boil and let it cool for a minute or two. The water should be around 70-75°C (160-170°F), which is slightly cooler than the boiling point. Boiling water may make your yerba mate taste bitter.

  5. Pour Water Over Yerba Mate: Pour the hot water into the French press over the yerba mate leaves. Be sure to cover all the leaves evenly to ensure a consistent brew.

  6. Steep the Yerba Mate: Place the lid on the French press without pressing down the plunger. Let the yerba mate steep for 3-5 minutes, adjusting the steeping time according to your taste preferences. A shorter steeping time will result in a milder flavor, while a longer steep will make it stronger.

  7. Press Down the Plunger: After steeping, gently press down the plunger to separate the liquid from the yerba mate leaves. Be cautious not to use excessive force, as this may cause the bitter compounds in the leaves to be released.

  8. Pour and Enjoy: Pour your freshly brewed yerba mate into your favorite cup or mug. You can add sweeteners, herbs, or spices to enhance the flavor to your liking.

Tips for a Perfect Yerba Mate:

  1. Use fresh, cold water: Start with high-quality, fresh water to ensure the best taste.

  2. Experiment with steeping time: Adjust the steeping time to suit your taste.

  3. Be mindful of water temperature: Use water that’s hot but not boiling to avoid bitterness.

  4. Clean your French press: Regular cleaning is essential to maintain the purity of your yerba mate.

By following these steps and tips, you can enjoy the delightful and invigorating experience of yerba mate using a French press. Whether you’re new to this South American tradition or a seasoned yerba mate enthusiast, this method allows you to appreciate the unique flavors and benefits of yerba mate in a convenient and accessible way. Cheers to your journey into the world of yerba mate!