Yerba Mate
Yerba Mate
Ingredients
• 1 cup spring water
• 1 tablespoon yerba mate
Directions
• Wet the yerba mate leaves slightly with cold water, then pour hot, not boiling, water over them.
• Steep for 5 minutes, strain, and serve.
• Traditionally this drink is served in hollowed-out gourds with silver rims.
Benefits: The benefits of this South American favorite are similar to those of green tea. Its high antioxidant levels reduce oxidative stress. It also provides substantial amounts of minerals and vitamins such as potassium, manganese, phosphorus, sodium, and nitrogen, and vitamins A, C, and E. It promotes a healthy digestive tract and cardiovascular system and improves digestion. Flavor-wise, the sticks and stems will typically supply more of a woodsy taste than pure leaf mate will. As with other bitter beverages such as black coffee, beer, or tea, drinking straight yerba mate may be an acquired taste.