How to Drink Mate in Argentina

If you want to get a deeper understanding of Argentine culture, you can start by learning how to drink mate like a local. Mate is an integral part of Argentine culture and it has its own characteristics.

Any time is a good time for mate. It can be compared to tea or coffee in other countries. But unlike other infusions, mate has a great advantage: you can drink it all day long. Actually, many people do that since it is a great companion for any activity, no matter the place or the time of the day.

Mate is more than just a drink. It means sharing and connecting with others, which is why it has become such an important part of our social life, regardless of age or background. It is basically a herbal tea that can be drank alone or with friends, family or coworkers. You can take mate with you anywhere, from a park to your office.

If you want to prepare this infusion, you will need a mate cup, yerba, a bombilla (straw) and a kettle or thermos. Pour yerba into your mate cup and place the straw. Then, pour hot water (not boiling) into your mate cup and drink it. Whenever you are offered mate, you should take small sips of it to make sure the water is just the right temperature.

While it is a popular drink in several South American countries, mate is a cultural cornerstone in Argentina and has its own distinctive characteristics. The truth is that it is hard to imagine visiting this country without tasting this iconic drink.