Introduction
Mate, a traditional South American drink, holds a special place in the hearts of those who partake in its ritual. While often perceived as a simple beverage, it is an integral part of social gatherings, fostering connections and unity among people. The act of sharing mate comes with a set of unspoken rules and etiquette, guiding participants through a unique cultural experience. In this article, we will explore the customs and traditions associated with mate, shedding light on the unwritten rules that make this communal drink more than just a beverage.
The Mate Setting
Mate is not an individualistic experience but a social one. It is a beverage meant to be shared among friends, family, and acquaintances. The typical mate setting involves sitting in a circle, with everyone sharing the same gourd (cuia) and straw (bomba or bombilla). This communal approach fosters a sense of togetherness and unity among participants.
The Role of the Cebador
In the mate circle, there is one person designated as the server, known as the cebador in Spanish, and preparador, cevador, or patrão in Portuguese. The cebador’s role is essential, as they are responsible for preparing and serving the mate. In family gatherings, the cebador is often the host of the event. The cebador begins by filling the gourd and drinking the first mate completely. This serves to check the quality of the mate and ensure it is free of particulate matter. They also taste the second filling and, if they find it too cold or bitter, they will consume it as well.
Passing the Mate
Once the cebador is satisfied with the mate’s quality, they pass the gourd to the person on their right. This participant is expected to drink all of the mate, which usually isn’t much, as the gourd is filled with yerba (mate leaves), leaving little room for water. After finishing the mate, the drinker returns the gourd without saying “thank you.” Saying “thank you” (or “gracias”) implies that the participant has had enough and is no longer interested in consuming mate. The cycle continues around the circle in this manner.
The “Mate del zonzo” and “Lavado” Mate
In some regions, it is considered impolite to pass the first brew of mate to another drinker. This brew may be too cold or too strong, and for this reason, it is often referred to as “mate del zonzo” or “fool’s mate.” The cebador usually drinks this first mate to ensure that it meets the desired standards.
The mate circle continues until the mate becomes “lavado,” meaning it is washed out or has lost its flavor. This typically happens after the gourd has been filled about ten times or more, depending on the type of yerba used and the skill of the cebador.
Unwritten Rules of Mate Etiquette as per Circle of Drink
1. Don’t Touch the Bombilla
It’s considered impolite to touch the bombilla (straw) with your hands. Sip from it, but never handle it.
2. Don’t Pass the Mate to the Person Next to You
Always return the mate to the cebador, who is responsible for serving it to the next person in the circle.
3. Never Complain About the Mate
Mate is about relaxation and enjoyment. Avoid complaining about the taste or temperature, as it can be off-putting to others.
4. Don’t Take an Hour to Drink the Mate
It’s customary to finish your mate within a reasonable amount of time, typically two to three minutes, to keep the circle flowing smoothly.
5. Don’t Slobber and Don’t Participate if You’re Sick
When drinking traditional mate, avoid touching the bombilla with your tongue. If you’re unwell, politely decline to participate in the mate circle.
6. Don’t be Scared to Slurp
It’s acceptable to slurp the mate at the end to signal that you’ve finished and respected the drink.
7. Say “Gracias” (or Thank You)
To indicate that you’ve had enough mate, say “Thanks.” For the English-speaking world that doesn’t make sense. We usually say “No Thanks.” But traditionally, participants of mate circles have said “Gracias” when they no longer want to drink mate. It’s a sign of respect.
8. When You First Meet Someone
When you first meet someone you can say “unos mates?” or in English, “Want to drink a mate?” This is a sign of great respect. Then you may ask the person “How do you like it — bitter or sweet?” It’s polite to respond “como vos tomás” or “however you take it.”
Conclusion
Mate is more than just a beverage; it is a cherished cultural practice that unites people in a circle of camaraderie and connection. The rules and etiquette associated with sharing mate are a reflection of the respect and care that underpin this tradition. As you sip from the same gourd and straw, you not only enjoy the taste of mate but also the warmth of human connection, making it a truly special experience in South American culture.