Yerba Mate in Syria

Introduction

Yerba mate, a strong, grassy tea native to South America, has found an unexpected and passionate following in Syria. This aromatic beverage has become a cultural phenomenon, thanks to the unique confluence of history, tradition, and the resilience of the Syrian people. In this article, we will explore the fascinating journey of yerba mate in Syria, from its introduction in the late 19th century to its current status as a cherished aspect of Syrian life, even during wartime conditions.

Historical Roots

The roots of yerba mate’s popularity in Syria can be traced back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. During this time, Syrians embarked on journeys to South America in search of better opportunities. As they settled in their new homes, they were introduced to the rich tradition of mate drinking. Yerba mate, traditionally served in a gourd and sipped through a metal straw, soon became a social tradition among the Syrian immigrants, connecting them to the culture of their adopted homeland.

A Social Tradition

Mate drinking quickly became more than just a beverage; it became a social tradition in Syria. It was shared among family and friends, providing a platform for conversations, storytelling, and bonding. The act of preparing and enjoying mate turned into a cherished ritual, fostering a sense of unity among those partaking in this South American tradition.

Mate in Wartime

The ongoing civil war in Syria, which began in 2011, has caused immense internal displacement. As Syrians fled violence, they carried their love for mate with them to new areas and communities. This dispersion of the population led to the spread of yerba mate’s popularity even in wartime conditions. Mate, with its comforting warmth and social significance, became a source of solace and connection for the displaced.

Local Production and High Demand

Today, more than half of Syria’s population has been displaced, and mate drinking is common in various regions, even under adverse circumstances. Several Syrian companies have now emerged to produce and distribute yerba mate domestically. In 2018, Syria imported a staggering 34.5 million kilograms of yerba mate, with an approximate value of USD 71.7 million, showcasing the high demand for this beloved tea among the Syrian community. It is the Druze communities in Syria and Lebanon that have played a significant role in preserving and promoting the culture and practice of mate.

Recognizing Yerba Mate’s Importance

The Central Bank of Syria, acknowledging the deep-rooted significance of yerba mate in Syrian life, took a notable step in 2019 by including yerba maté among the essential commodities supported for import. This inclusion places yerba mate in the same category as staple items like rice, sugar, baby milk, and medicine, underscoring the importance of yerba mate in the lives of the Syrian people.

Preparation and Brands

Yerba mate in Syria is typically served in small glasses with an approximate volume of 100 ml. The preparation process is an art in itself: a glass is filled with approximately 10 grams of yerba mate, and a bombilla (known as “massasa” (مصاصة) in Arabic) is placed in the glass. The ritual begins with cold water being added to steep the leaves, followed by its removal and the infusion of hot water. The drinking process starts immediately, with the option to add sugar, honey, or medicinal herbs according to personal preference. This ceremony is repeated for an hour or more, using approximately half a liter of hot water until the yerba mate leaves are thoroughly washed out.

In Syria, popular yerba mate brands include:

• Piporé. Which is quite known to Yerba mate drinkers.

• Kharta Khadra: This is an exclusive Yerba Mate blend tailored for the Middle Eastern market, including Syria.

Bonus: Leading countries of destination of yerba mate exports from Argentina in 2022 (in 1,000 kilograms)

Syria, is the biggest importer of Yerba Mate from Argentina ¹

Conclusion

Yerba mate has transcended its South American origins to become an integral part of Syrian culture and tradition. This remarkable fusion of history and the resilience of the Syrian people has resulted in mate’s widespread acceptance, even in the most trying of circumstances. As yerba mate continues to be shared among family and friends in Syria, it serves as a symbol of connection, resilience, and the enduring power of cultural traditions in times of adversity.

If you from Syria or Lebanon and want me to add some more info, please write me email on contact@artyomalekseev.com. I would be happy to extend the article and document more about the unique tradition.

Sources

• Great scientific study, must read if you interested to know more. Sulaiman N, Pieroni A, Sõukand R, Whitney C, Polesny Z. Socio-Cultural Significance of Yerba Maté among Syrian Residents and Diaspora.
• Article by Raja Abdulrahim in New York Times