Discover the Art of Making 1 Liter of Chimarrão Tea

Chimarrão tea, a beloved traditional beverage in South America, is not just a drink; it's a cultural experience. If you're curious about how to make 1 liter of chimarrão tea, you've come to the right place. In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps, ensuring you master the art of preparing this flavorful infusion.

1. Choose Quality Ingredients:

Start with high-quality maté leaves, a key component of chimarrão. The freshness of the leaves significantly impacts the flavor, so select them carefully. Additionally, you'll need hot water, a chimarrão gourd, and a bombilla (metal straw).

2. Prepare the Chimarrão Gourd:

Before adding the ingredients, cure the chimarrão gourd by filling it with hot water. Allow it to sit for a few hours, ensuring the gourd is seasoned and ready to enhance the tea's taste.

3. Measure the Maté Leaves:

For a liter of chimarrão tea, you'll need approximately 50 grams of maté leaves. Adjust the quantity based on your taste preferences, as some prefer a stronger flavor while others opt for a milder infusion.

4. Fill the Gourd:

Place the measured maté leaves into the cured chimarrão gourd. Tilt the gourd at an angle, allowing the leaves to cover the side and create a slope for the water to flow evenly through the straw.

5. Pour Hot Water:

Heat the water to around 160–180°F (70–80°C). Pour it into the chimarrão gourd, allowing the leaves to absorb the water. Avoid using boiling water, as it can scorch the leaves and alter the taste.

6. Insert the Bombilla:

Once the leaves have absorbed the water, insert the bombilla into the chimarrão gourd. Position it near the slope created by the leaves. The bombilla acts as a filter, allowing you to sip the tea without ingesting the leaves.

7. Enjoy the Ritual:

Sip the chimarrão tea slowly, savoring the unique flavor and embracing the cultural ritual associated with this beverage. Feel the warmth and camaraderie that chimarrão brings to gatherings.