First things first - tea taster Louise informs us it's pronounced 'yerba mate-hey'. But we're a pretty easy going bunch, and not one to get all pedantic about it.
As you might have seen, all eyes are on Brazil at the moment – we’re not allowed to say why exactly, but rumor has it there’s a sporting event that is a pretty big deal.
What we CAN talk about however, is our eternal gratitude to Brazil and South America for bringing yerba mate into our lives. An incredibly distinctive, smoky tea, widely revered for its health benefits and 10 time winner of teapig Nick’s ‘favorite brew’ award.
Made from the leaves of a holly like tree found in South American rainforests, and although not strictly a tea - the leaves of the mate plant are prepared in a similar fashion to that of Camellia Sinensis which is good enough for us!
What’s the big deal we hear you cry!? For centuries, yerba has been drunk for its ability to rejuvenate and provide focus. The leaves of the mate tree naturally contain vitamins, minerals amino acids and antioxidants – making it one of the most nutrient rich plants going. Back in the 60s, various scientific institutes even concluded that yerba mate contains ‘practically all the vitamins necessary to sustain life’… It really has the makings of a fairy-tale elixir…except it’s real. And we sell it for $9.99 a pack (Although you can nab yourself 20% off throughout August!)
Despite traditionally being drunk hot, and passed around friends and family in one of our favorite tea ceremonies - we are quite partial to a glass of iced yerba (controversial...we know)
Take a look at our super simple recipe and why not give it a try at home - it's delicious!
Ingredients:
- 2 x yerba mate tea temples
- 150ml lemonade
- Drop of maple syrup (optional)
- Fresh mint leaves
Method
- Cover the 2 tea temples with hot water, and leave to brew for 10-12 minutes
- Once cool, pour over ice
- Top up with lemonade
- If you need a little extra sweetness – add a drop of maple syrup
- Give it all a mix and garnish with mint!
