Brazilian mate

Brazillian Maté tea is a type of mate enjoyed in the southern regions of Brazil. It is an energizing blend of toasted maté with cinnamon, ginger, and the zest of orange citrus peels. With the last decade of growing demand for healthy, caffeinated, plant-based drinks, Brazilian Mate gained popularity in the United States.

What is Maté? (pronounced Mah-tay)

Maté is made from yerba maté, a holly tree in South America. Also known as ilex paraguariensis, yerba mate typically has an herbaceous flavor. However, Brazilian maté is a toasted form of yerba maté with a deep, sweet, and savory flavor.

Even though it does not come from the tea plant, the antioxidant and caffeine levels are similar to true tea.

What does Brazilian Maté taste like?

After steeping in hot water for 3-5 minutes, the mellow spices of Brazilian Maté release a natural roasted flavor, smoother and toastier than a chai tea. It is a pleasant blend rich in antioxidants and full of nutrients. 

Traditionally, Brazilian Mate is drunk from a cuia gourd. These mate cups are made from the fruit of a gourd vine, similar to a squash plant. The fruit is hollowed, shaped, and dried to form a cuia.

The shape varies by location. A Brazilian cuia is large and has a soft interior with a broad rim. In contrast, the Argentine version has a harder surface and lacks a brim.

Brazilian Mate can also be steeped in a standard tea infuser.

Delicious hot or iced, Brazilian Maté is meant to be enjoyed year-round. If you have a sweet craving, try it iced with milk and sugar.

Maté vs coffee

Boost your energy and help improve your mental focus with a cup of Brazilian Maté. Even though it is an herbal tea, maté tea is caffeinated. This spiced maté is no exception.

Maté contains less caffeine than coffee but more than an average cup of tea. Many people enjoy maté instead of coffee for enhanced alertness and to avoid the jittery side effects of coffee. 

With a high level of caffeine, we don't suggest Brazilian Maté as an evening tea.

Steep at 150° for 3-5 minutes.

Ingredients: Toasted yerba maté tea, cinnamon bark, natural spice flavor, orange peels, and ginger root.