How do you make the perfect Argentina yerba Mate..how many teaspoons,how long to brew ....?

Question

I don't think i'm doing it right,i'm trying to give up coffee i think mate would be a good alternative!!!!

Answer 1

http://www.wikihow.com/Make-Yerba-Mate

try this link x*x

Answer 2

Below is a great page on the subject of Yerba Mate. Although, the description of "how to" is really that of a purist.

As someone who has had the pleasure of sharing mate with friends and family, the social aspect is as important as the drink itself.

Here's what you'll need:

- Yerba mate - not all brands are created equal. Just like coffee, you'll need to find one that you like.

- A calabazo (gourd)

- A bombilla (metal straw)

- A thermos with a pour spout. In a pinch, I've used a ceramic teapot... but, the thermos with the "Tapón cebador" (server top) does job much more efficiently.  

Fill the calabazo to a little over 1/2. Turn the calabazo upside down, and shake it a few times. This puts the fine particles on the top of the yerba mate, and helps to prevent the bottom part of the bombilla from getting clogged.

The water used should be hot, but not boiling hot. I generally pour enough water in to moisten the yerba mate, and let it absorb it. After about a minute, you can fill it to the top of the calabazo. Then, insert the bombilla and enjoy.

One additional thought... your calabazo must be broken in, or cured, to give you the best experience. The purists suggest filling the calabazo with yerba mate (in the same way as described above), add your water and let it sit overnight. Periodically, for the next 24 hours, you will top off the water in the calabazo as it is absorbed. After that time, the calabazo is emptied out, and the remaining yerba mate is scraped from the inside using the bombilla... or, a small demitasse spoon will work, too. Let the calabazo sit in the sun until it is completely dry. OR, it will cure naturally with about 10 or so uses.

Once you have your technique down, you will probably be able to enjoy a calabazo of yerba mate for one, or possibly two thermos'. As you re-fill the calabazo, you will see small bubbles rising to the surface. If not, replace the mate in your calabazo. Or, use a different one... if you have it.

Enjoy!