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Legend says that the South American Guarani people were taught to prepare and drink Yerba Maté by Yari, the goddess of the moon.
What is Yerba Maté?
Yerba Maté comes from a tree native to the forests of South America, and the history of it dates back to the 16th century when it was traditionally consumed by the native Guarani people for its medicinal properties. It is mostly produced in Argentina, as the tree thrives in the humid subtropical climate. Yerba Maté is similar to wine - as its aging process can take up to three years depending on variety!
How To Drink It:
Yerba Maté is traditionally prepared in a gourd (see stripped small cup in photo), which is lined with cork. The gourd requires a curing process, similar to cast iron. Curing occurs as you keep using your gourd and prevents cracking, molding and improves the flavor of your tea. The longer you use your gourd, the better your maté will taste! Bombillas are metal straws used to drink the maté out of your gourd. At the end of the straw there is a filter, so you can sip your tea as the tea leaves float freely in your cup without sucking up leaves!
Add 1-2 teaspoons of Yerba Maté to your gourd and pour hot water (not boiling) over your leaves, and sip through your bombilla straw!
We hope this season is filled with joy and celebrations of your family's unique traditions!
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