Yerba Mate for Tereré: Should it really be drunk cold? Find out the truth!
Hello friends!
Today I want to answer one of the most common questions I get from you: “Is yerba mate for tereré only drunk cold?” The quick answer is: No! The yerba mate used to prepare tereré can be enjoyed both cold and hot. In this article, we will debunk this belief and I will explain everything you need to know about this type of yerba mate.
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What is Yerba Mate for Tereré?
Yerba mate for tereré is characterized by a low dust content and coarser-cut leaves. This particularity makes it perfect for preparing tereré, a refreshing drink typical of Paraguay, where yerba mate is infused in cold water or juice. The low amount of dust facilitates the circulation of water through the bombilla, preventing the infusion from becoming saturated too quickly.
However, even though this yerba is labeled "for tereré," this does not mean that it should be drunk exclusively cold. This confusion comes from the fact that tereré is traditionally consumed cold, but in reality, it is the same plant that is used for hot mate. So you can drink it cold or hot.
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What is the Difference with Traditional Yerba Mate?
Although the main difference between traditional yerba mate and yerba mate for tereré is the texture of the cup, the benefits and overall flavor remain the same. Here are the main differences:
Cup: Yerba tereré contains less dust and larger leaves, making it ideal for smoother, easier-to-drink cold infusions.
Use: Although it is labeled "tereré", it can be used for both tereré (cold) and mate (hot).
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Why does Yerba for Tereré have a Low Dust Content?
The main reason why yerba mate for tereré has less dust is that it allows for better circulation of cold water, improving the drinking experience when brewing at a lower temperature. The dust in yerba mate can make the brew thicker with cold water, sometimes clogging the bombilla or making the drink heavier.
However, this same low-dust characteristic can also be appreciated by those who drink hot mate. Many people prefer a yerba with less dust for a smoother, less intense mate. So if you’re looking for a less dusty yerba, yerba mate for tereré is a great option!
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Tereré: A Simple Way to Drink Yerba
Tereré is just a way to drink yerba mate, not a different type of yerba. Historically, tereré has been the go-to drink for cooling off in hot regions, where a cold drink with yerba is more thirst-quenching. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t use that same yerba to make a traditional hot mate.
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So, How to Use Yerba for Tereré in a Hot Mate?
Preparation: You can prepare your hot mate as usual, using yerba mate for tereré. The main difference you will notice is that the mate will be a little smoother and more fluid, thanks to the coarser cut and less dust.
Flavor: With less dust, this yerba can offer a less bitter and more balanced mate, perfect if you prefer a milder taste.
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What if I only prefer hot mate?
No worries! If you prefer to drink your mate hot, you can definitely use yerba mate for tereré. Since it is the same plant as yerba mate, there is nothing stopping you from using it to prepare a hot mate and enjoying it at any time of the day.
If you prefer a yerba with less dust so that your mate is smoother, the yerba mate for tereré is a perfect solution. Not only will you get a less bitter infusion, but you will also prevent the bombilla from clogging too quickly.
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Conclusion
Yerba mate for tereré is not limited to cold consumption. You can enjoy it both cold and hot without losing its benefits or unique flavor. So, the next time you see a package of yerba mate labeled "for tereré", feel free to use it for your hot mate if that's what you prefer, and enjoy a smoother, less dusty mate!
If you have any further questions or need personalized recommendations, please feel free to contact me. I am here to help you find the perfect yerba for your mate, whether you like it cold or hot.
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