Cold Brew Yerba Mate is a refreshing alternative for Mate Day. If you’re not a fan of yerba mate lattes, this is the ideal solution. The tropical flavor adds a fresh twist to the drink. It’s light, energizing, and perfectly refreshing.
Contents
Cold brew Yerba mate recipe
Yerba mate is a caffeinated drink popular in Argentina, Paraguay, and Brazil. It is often served hot. However, cold brew yerba mate offers a different experience with a smooth, mild taste.
Cold brew yerba mate has several benefits.
- It reduces tannin extraction. This results in a smoother taste and less bitterness than hot brewing.
- It is hydrating and ideal for warm days.
I’ll add pineapple for a tropical hint. Yerba mate pairs beautifully with pineapple and vanilla. Here is how to make cold brew yerba mate with pineapple juice:
Tropical Cold Brew Yerba Mate
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons loose-leaf yerba mate
- 3 cups cold filtered water
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 slice fresh ginger optional, for a subtle spice kick
- 1 teaspoon agave syrup or honey adjust to taste
- Ice cubes
- Fresh mint or pineapple wedges for garnish
Instructions
- Combine yerba mate, ginger slice (if using), and cold water in a jar or pitcher. Stir gently.
- Cover and let steep in the fridge for 12 hours.
- Strain the cold-brewed yerba mate into a clean pitcher. Discard the leaves and ginger.
- Stir in pineapple juice, vanilla extract, and agave syrup until well combined.
- Add ice cubes in 2 glasses and pour the cold brew yerba mate mixture over the top.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves or a pineapple wedge for a tropical flair.
How to pair
Cold brew yerba mate pairs well with a variety of dishes. Here are some excellent pairing suggestions:
- Avocado toast:
- Avocado toast pairs well with yerba mate. The creamy avocado texture complements the mate’s bold flavor.
- How to serve:
- Spread mashed avocado on toasted whole-grain bread.
- Sprinkle with sea salt and lemon juice.
- Sip yerba mate between bites.
- Cheese plate:
- A cheese plate features sharp cheddar, brie, and blue cheese. It creates an interplay with yerba mate.
- Serve cold brew yerba mate with cheese, bread, fruits, and nuts.
- Alfajores contrast yerba mate’s earthy flavors.
- Savory dishes like grilled chicken or seafood are great options.
- Spicy foods like curry or tacos pair well with the tea.
- Light salads with fresh greens and nuts pair well with yerba mate.
Variations
This cold brew yerba mate can be enjoyed in various forms:
- Tereré
- Tereré is a traditional Paraguayan drink. It is made by infusing yerba mate with cold water or juice. It is often served with ice. The drink can be enhanced with fresh herbs (yuyos).
- Instructions:
- Fill a gourd with yerba mate.
- Prepare cold water or juice with ice.
- Pour the cold mixture over yerba mate.
- Let it steep briefly.
- Sip through a glass and enjoy the refreshing taste.
- Flavored Variations
- Citrus blends brighten the drink. They include oranges, lemons, or grapefruits.
- Herbals like mint or chamomile create unique flavor combinations.
- Tereré Ruso
- Tereré Ruso uses cold juice instead of plain water. Cold juice adds sweetness and complexity. This version originated from Russian volunteers in Paraguay. It is increasingly popular.
- Smoothies and Cocktails
- Cold-brewed yerba mate is used as a base for smoothies and cocktails. Yerba mate is blended with fruits like bananas, berries, or mangoes.
