What is mate cocido?

Mate cocido is a popular South American beverage made from yerba mate leaves that have been dried, ground, and brewed similar to tea. It is typically consumed in Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, and southern Brazil.

To prepare mate cocido, the yerba mate leaves are steeped in hot water rather than being infused in a traditional gourd and sipped through a metal straw called a bombilla like traditional mate. This results in a milder flavor and a smoother texture compared to traditional mate.

Mate cocido is often enjoyed as a morning or afternoon drink and is commonly served with milk and sugar. It is known for its stimulating properties due to the caffeine content in the yerba mate leaves.

Overall, mate cocido is a comforting and energizing beverage that is deeply ingrained in the culture of South America.