Two things that I always try to do when visiting another country are sample the local cuisine and participate in local customs. In Argentina, the drink known as mate (pronounced “mah-tay”) is an important part of both! Read below to learn about this special tradition.
Mate is an herbal drink, somewhat similar to a bitter tea. You prepare it in a small cup, traditionally made from a hollowed out gourd. Today, mate cups are also made out of plastic and metal. First, you place crushed yerba mate, or the mate herbs, in the bottom of the cup. Next, you pour in hot water. You then drink the mate through the bombilla, a special straw that filters out the herbs. Once the water is gone, you continuously add more until you are done drinking. Some people add sugar as well, especially when sharing with children, but it is most common to drink the mate without sweetener.
Mate is also much more than just a drink. While you can drink mate on your own, usually this is a group activity shared with friends and family. The mate cup is passed between each person, with everyone drinking out of the same straw. Hanging out and drinking mate together is a sign of friendship, trust and welcome.
