Did your first mate taste bitter or did your bombilla get clogged? Don't worry — it's the most common mistake. Mate is a drink with its own ritual, and like any ritual, it has its technique. In this guide, you'll learn how to prepare yerba mate correctly from scratch, so it's not bitter and doesn't "wash out" after the first few pours.
What do you need to prepare mate?
Before you start, make sure you have these 4 basic items:
- A mate (the container): made of gourd, wood, glass, or stainless steel.
- A bombilla: the metal filter you use as a straw. Stainless steel is the most hygienic.
- Yerba mate: preferably a good quality brand with stems for beginners (less bitter).
- Hot water: Never boiling! The ideal temperature is between 70°C and 80°C.
The #1 Mistake That Ruins Mate (and How to Avoid It)
The most common mistake is using boiling water (100°C). Water that is too hot burns the yerba, destroys its nutrients, and makes the mate very bitter and harsh. If you don't have a thermometer, a simple trick: boil the water and let it rest for 3-5 minutes before using it.
Step-by-Step: How to Prepare Mate Correctly
Step 1: Fill the mate with yerba (2/3 full)
Tilt the mate to a 45° angle and pour in the yerba until it fills approximately two-thirds of the container. The yerba should be tilted, not flat. This creates the "little mountain" that is key for the bombilla to work properly.
Step 2: Moisten the base with cold water
Before inserting the bombilla, pour a splash of cold water onto the bottom of the yerba (the empty side of the tilted mate). This protects the yerba from a sudden thermal shock and helps prevent it from "washing out" quickly.
Step 3: Insert the bombilla
Cover the tip of the bombilla with your thumb and insert it into the side with less yerba, angled towards the center of the mate. Do not move the bombilla once it's in place: doing so will clog the filter with fine yerba.
Step 4: Pour the hot water (70-80°C)
Slowly pour the hot water onto the side where the bombilla is, without wetting all the yerba at once. Let the water absorb gradually. In the first few pours, the flavor will be more intense — that's normal and part of the ritual!
Step 5: Time to pour!
Each time the mate empties, pour water again in the same spot. A good yerba can withstand between 8 and 15 pours before "washing out." When the flavor becomes very mild and the mate comes out with almost no bubbles, it's time to change the yerba.
Water Temperature: The Golden Rule
| Temperature | Result | Recommended? |
|---|---|---|
| 60°C or less | Flavorless mate, no taste | ❌ No |
| 70–80°C | Balanced, smooth, and rich flavor | ✅ Ideal |
| 90°C | More intense, slightly bitter | ⚠️ For experts |
| 100°C (boiling) | Bitter, burns the yerba and nutrients | ❌ Never |
Extra Tips for a Perfect Mate
- 🌿 For beginners: choose a yerba with stems (like Rosamonte or Canarias). It's milder and lasts for more pours.
- 💧 If the bombilla gets clogged: Remove the bombilla, rinse with clean water, and reinsert it. Do not shake it inside the mate.
- 🧂 Sweet mate? You can add a teaspoon of sugar or stevia on top of the yerba before pouring the water.
- 🧊 In summer: Try tereré — mate with cold water and orange or lemon juice. It's refreshing and delicious!
Ready to Get Started? Get Your Mate Kit
If you don't have your complete kit yet, in our store you'll find kits that include everything you need: mate, bombilla, thermos, and premium yerba. Perfect for gifting or starting your own ritual.
Do you have questions about how to prepare your mate? Write to us in the store chat — we'll be happy to help you find the perfect setup for you.