Large groups of Argentineans gather in their town’s plaza. Men, dressed in suit and tie, exchange handshakes and embraces. Women, dressed in cool summer dresses arrive, with kids in tow. Each is greeted warmly with a kiss to the cheek. Without fail, somebody begins serving Mate.
Dark green Yerba Mate leaves are poured into a hollowed gourd. A dash of sugar sweetens the bitter tea. Hot, not boiling, water is poured into the mix. The host sips the first serving through the metal bombilla straw before refilling the gourd and handing to the next lucky participant. The Mate makes circles around the entire group, in clockwise order, with each person finishing the contents before handing it back to the host. As water runs dry, another thermos is inevitably produced. The ritual can last for hours as both stories and friendship are shared along with the slightly bitter brew.
It’s a common scene in Argentina. While Yerba Mate is popular through much of South America, it has permeated Argentinean Culture. Traditionally, Mate is offered as a sign of friendship and warmth. An invitation to share Mate is an invitation to stay and chat. It’s about slowing down and enjoying a slower pace of life.
The drink also packs a nutritional punch. In fact, it may be one of the leading reasons that Argentineans tend to be skinnier than their North American brethren.
Yerba Mate’s chemical composition aids digestion, regulates sleep patterns, and relaxes muscle tissue while stimulating heart tissue. It lowers LDL-cholesterol, lessens the tendency towards obesity, and provides a healthy dose of potassium. Its caffeine content splits the difference between normal teas and ground coffee, so a slight energy kick is also included.
Unfortunately, rapid development, technology, and modern age might put this healthy tradition at risk. Starbucks recently opened its first Argentinean franchises in Buenos Aires, and national brands Havana and Bonafide continue to flourish. Coffees, mochas, and extra-foam low-fat soy lattes may soon replace Mate as the new drink of choice.
Back at the plaza, another thermos finds its way into the hands of the host. More Yerba Mate leaves are added to strengthen the bold flavor. The gourd continues its never-ending trip around the group. Stories are told. Laughs are exchanged. Eyes dance with warmth, love, and friendship. A simple truth is revealed:
This tradition isn’t ready to relinquish its grip on this friendly culture just yet.
Photos and text by Jeff bartlett
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