The mate gourd is one of the essential accessories for preparing a traditional Yerba Mate. There are many options available: traditional gourd, glass, stainless steel, or leather. So, how do you choose the right one? Here are our tips for finding your perfect mate gourd.
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Where does the mate gourd come from?
A mate gourd is a vessel used to prepare Yerba Mate. Originally, it was hollowed out from a dried calabash. Its name comes from the bottle-shaped fruit used to make it. Today, it goes by several names: mate gourd, mate pot, mate cup, or mate vessel.
To enjoy an authentic Yerba Mate, place the leaves in the gourd and pour hot (not boiling) water over them. To drink, you use a metal straw called a bombilla.
Another method is to prepare mate like an herbal infusion, using a tea infuser or tea bag.
How to choose a mate gourd?
There are 3 key factors to consider when choosing your gourd:
- Material: your choice depends on your level of experience. An experienced drinker will prefer a traditional gourd, while a beginner will find glass or stainless steel much easier to use.
- Volume: mate gourds typically range from 100 to 500 ml.
- Price: the cost varies depending on the material.
Which type of mate gourd is right for you?
To truly enjoy a good Yerba Mate, choosing the right vessel matters. There are many options out there, so take the time to find the one that suits you best.
Traditional gourd (calabash)
The traditional mate gourd is made from a dried calabash. Best suited for enthusiasts, it is fairly fragile and requires careful maintenance. Before first use, the gourd must be cured to remove any residue.
Wooden mate gourds
Wooden gourds are often small in size, ideal for individual use. Like the calabash, a wooden gourd must be cured before its first use.
Bamboo gourds also exist. While visually striking, they are not very resistant to moisture and can mold quickly.
Ceramic mate gourds
The ceramic gourd is the first non-traditional option. It is easier to use and requires little maintenance. On the downside, ceramic gourds are fairly fragile and do not retain heat for long.
Metal mate gourds
The metal gourd is the ideal choice for beginners discovering mate for the first time. Made from stainless steel or aluminum, it is durable, insulating, and easy to clean.
Glass mate gourds
Glass gourds are both beautiful and practical, often wrapped in leather or fabric. Glass does not affect the flavor of the mate, unlike calabash or wooden gourds.
Plastic or silicone gourds
Plastic or silicone gourds are budget-friendly and low-maintenance. They often include a built-in slot for the bombilla straw.
Fruit gourds
You can also enjoy your mate in a hollowed-out fruit such as a grapefruit or coconut. A true invitation to travel! Best saved for a special occasion, as the preparation takes a little time and the fruit will not keep.
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